Automation & Robotics Engineer

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 550,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Performance bonus

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Automation & Robotics Engineer for a progressive manufacturing firm in Paarl, Western Cape. You will design, implement, and optimize robotic systems and automated processes on the production floor, balancing hands-on work with remote planning.

Key focus areas include programming FANUC, KUKA, and ABB robots, machine vision integration, CAD design, PLC/HMI interfacing, and safety optimization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in industrial automation and robotics.
• Experience programming/integrating industrial robots from major manufacturers.
• Strong CAD skills (SolidWorks).
• Familiarity with PLC programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop automated work cells and robotic systems, including robotic arm selection, end-of-arm tooling, and PLC integration.
• Program industrial robots (FANUC, KUKA, ABB) for manufacturing tasks.
• Develop and implement machine vision systems for inspection and guidance.
• Design mechanical components and mechanisms for custom automation equipment.
• Create CAD models and electrical schematics for automation systems.
• Perform risk assessments and implement safety features for automated systems.
• Troubleshoot and debug automation equipment remotely and on-site.
• Collaborate with production teams to identify automation opportunities and implement solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in robotics, automation, and control technologies.

Skills

Problem solving

Communication

Teamwork

Hybrid work adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Mechatronics

Tools

SolidWorks

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

HMI development

Machine vision software

Job description

About the Role: Our client, a progressive manufacturing firm specializing in automated solutions, is seeking an experienced Automation & Robotics Engineer to enhance their production capabilities. This role is critical in designing, implementing, and optimizing robotic systems and automated processes within manufacturing environments. You will be instrumental in improving efficiency, precision, and safety on the production floor. This position is based in Paarl, Western Cape, offering a hybrid work setup that balances hands‑on implementation with remote planning and analysis. We are looking for a forward‑thinking engineer with a strong background in mechanical design, control systems, and robotics.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop automated work cells and robotic systems, including robotic arm selection, end‑of‑arm tooling, and integration with PLCs.
• Program industrial robots (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB) for various manufacturing tasks.
• Develop and implement machine vision systems for inspection and guidance.
• Design mechanical components and mechanisms for custom automation equipment.
• Create detailed CAD models and electrical schematics for automation systems.
• Perform risk assessments and implement safety features for automated systems.
• Troubleshoot and debug automation equipment and processes, both remotely and on‑site.
• Collaborate with production teams to identify automation opportunities and implement solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in robotics, automation, and control technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechatronics.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation and robotics.
• Proven experience in programming and integrating industrial robots from major manufacturers.
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles and CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks).
• Familiarity with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley) and HMI development.
• Experience with machine vision systems and software.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to diagnose complex technical issues.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to adapt to a hybrid work environment, including occasional on‑site presence.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, retirement fund benefits, and performance bonuses.
• Employees benefit from a dynamic work environment, opportunities for continuous learning and professional development in a rapidly evolving field, and the chance to work on innovative projects.
• The hybrid model supports a flexible work‑life balance.
• Join our client and be at the forefront of manufacturing automation.