Automation Lead Engineer – Robotics & PLCs (On-site)

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical aid and family coverage

Provident fund contributions

International training opportunities

Career advancement within a growingOrg

State-of-the-art facilities and tools

Employee wellness programs

Company transport options or allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Industrial Engineer with automation expertise to join our client in Tembisa, Gauteng. This on-site, senior role requires strategic leadership to design, implement and manage automated systems that boost production efficiency and product quality.

You will head a team of engineers and technicians, oversee automation projects from concept to deployment, integrate new systems with existing processes, and drive continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or closely related field.
• 8+ years in industrial engineering with 4+ years in automation/robotics.
• Expertise in PLC programming, robotics, HMI and SCADA.
• Experience leading cross-functional project teams.
• Proficiency with Arena or FlexSim simulation software.
• On-site, full-time role in Tembisa, Gauteng.
• Automotive or FMCG sector experience desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of automation solutions including robotics, PLC systems, and material handling.
• Oversee integration of new automated systems with existing processes and IT infrastructure.
• Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for automation initiatives.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for automation projects.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to automated systems.
• Establish performance metrics and monitor efficiency of automated processes.
• Train and mentor engineering staff on automation technologies and best practices.
• Collaborate with vendors to select and procure automation equipment.
• Ensure safety regulations and standards compliance in designs and implementations.
• Drive continuous improvement in automation to boost productivity and reduce waste.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication skills

Team leadership

Strategic thinking

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

PLC programming

Robotics (FANUC/KUKA/ABB)

HMI/SCADA systems

Arena

FlexSim

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Industrial Engineer with automation expertise to join our client in Tembisa, Gauteng. This on-site, senior role requires strategic leadership to design, implement and manage automated systems that boost production efficiency and product quality.

You will head a team of engineers and technicians, oversee automation projects from concept to deployment, integrate new systems with existing processes, and drive continuous improvement.