Automation Specialist

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid and retirement planning

Continuous learning and development

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automation Specialist to design, implement, and maintain automated production systems in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role demands hands-on expertise in PLC/HMI/SCADA and robotics, with a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and quality improvements across manufacturing processes.

You will troubleshoot, document control logic, and train production staff while collaborating with engineering and production teams to modernize operations and achieve competitive

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems.
• Proficient in programming PLCs (Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMI, and SCADA.
• Experience with industrial robotics (KUKA, ABB, Fanuc) and related programming.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and implement automated systems (PLC, HMI, SCADA, robotics).
• Troubleshoot and repair automation equipment to minimize downtime.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics and control logic.
• Collaborate with engineering/production teams to integrate automation into manufacturing processes.
• Perform preventative maintenance on automation systems.
• Optimize parameters to improve performance, throughput, and energy efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.
• Train staff on operation and basic maintenance of automated equipment.
• Stay abreast of automation advancements and propose innovative solutions.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Robotics programming

Electrical systems

Troubleshooting

Schematics reading

Education

Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

HMI software

SCADA systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal manufacturing landscape, is seeking an experienced Automation Specialist to enhance and maintain their automated production systems. This critical role demands a deep understanding of industrial automation, robotics, and control systems. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, implementing, and troubleshooting automation solutions that improve efficiency, safety, and product quality. You will play a key part in modernizing our client's operations and ensuring their competitive edge in the market. This position is ideal for a hands-on engineer with a passion for cutting-edge technology and a proven ability to deliver robust automation solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and implement automated systems using PLC, HMI, SCADA, and robotics.
• Troubleshoot and repair automation equipment, diagnosing issues to minimize downtime.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics, control logic, and system documentation.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to integrate automation solutions into existing manufacturing processes.
• Perform regular preventative maintenance on automated machinery and control systems.
• Optimize automation parameters to improve machine performance, throughput, and energy efficiency.
• Ensure all automation projects comply with safety standards and regulations.
• Train production staff on the operation and basic maintenance of automated equipment.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology and propose innovative solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems.
• Proficiency in programming various PLC brands (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMI software, and SCADA systems.
• Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., KUKA, ABB, Fanuc) and associated programming.
• Strong understanding of electrical systems, pneumatic, and hydraulic principles.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with a meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings and schematics.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Experience in a manufacturing or production environment is essential.

Benefits

• A competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and retirement planning.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development in a high-tech environment.
• Exposure to advanced automation technologies and challenging projects.
• A supportive and collaborative team culture.
• Generous annual leave and other company-provided perks.
• Potential for career advancement within a growing organization.