Automation Specialist - Remote Manufacturing Operations

Placements24; Sudáfrica; A distancia; ZAR 900.000 - 1.200.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Health insurance

Performance bonuses

Remote-first approach

Career development

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking an Automation Specialist for a fully remote role supporting manufacturing operations across locations in South Africa. You will design, implement, and maintain advanced automation systems, including PLCs, HMI/SCADA, and robotics, to improve productivity, safety, and efficiency.

You will provide remote troubleshooting, collaborate with on-site teams for project commissioning, and develop thorough documentation while staying current with industry best practices and

Formación

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics or related field.
• 4+ years hands-on experience in industrial automation, PLC programming and SCADA/HMI.
• Proven robotics programming/ integration experience (FANUC, KUKA).
• Strong knowledge of industrial networks and control system architecture.

Responsabilidades

• Design, develop, and implement automated control systems for manufacturing processes, including PLC programming, HMI/SCADA, and robotics integration.
• Provide remote technical support and troubleshooting for automation hardware and software.
• Collaborate with on-site teams to commission projects and upgrade systems.
• Develop and maintain documentation for automation systems including diagrams and configs.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement through automation and cost reduction.
• Stay updated on emerging automation technologies and best practices.
• Conduct remote training sessions for on-site personnel.
• Participate in project planning, budgeting, and vendor selection for automation initiatives.
• Ensure safety standards and regulations in automation design and implementation.

Conocimientos

PLC programming

SCADA/HMI

Robotics integration

Remote support

Electrical schematics

Educación

Bachelors in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Engineering

Herramientas

Rockwell Automation

Siemens PLCs

FANUC robotics

KUKA robotics

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry through advanced automation and digital solutions. We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Automation Specialist to join our remote-first team, supporting our diverse manufacturing operations across various locations. This critical role will involve designing, implementing, and maintaining sophisticated automation systems that enhance productivity, efficiency, and safety. You will be instrumental in leveraging cutting‑edge technology to streamline workflows and drive innovation from a remote setting. This is an unparalleled opportunity for a proactive engineer to shape the future of manufacturing, working with a globally recognized leader dedicated to technological advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated control systems for manufacturing processes, including PLC programming, HMI/SCADA development, and robotics integration.
• Provide remote technical support and troubleshooting for existing automation hardware and software.
• Collaborate with on‑site engineering teams to commission new automation projects and perform system upgrades.
• Develop and maintain detailed documentation for automation systems, including logic diagrams, network configurations, and user manuals.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement through automation and implement solutions that increase efficiency and reduce operational costs.
• Stay abreast of emerging automation technologies and industry best practices, recommending and piloting new solutions.
• Conduct remote training sessions for on‑site personnel on the operation and maintenance of automated systems.
• Participate in project planning, budget estimation, and vendor selection for automation initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety standards and regulations in automation design and implementation.
• Optimize system performance and reliability through proactive monitoring and maintenance strategies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation, PLC programming (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens), and SCADA/HMI systems.
• Proven experience with robotic programming and integration (e.g., FANUC, KUKA).
• Strong understanding of industrial networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus) and control system architecture.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills, particularly in a remote support context.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and mechanical drawings.
• Experience with data acquisition and process optimization using automation data.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, essential for effective remote teamwork.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a remote environment.
• Must have reliable internet connectivity and a dedicated home office setup suitable for remote work.

Benefits

This role is fully remote, offering flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere within South Africa . Our client provides a competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, performance bonuses, and significant opportunities for professional growth and skill development in cutting‑edge automation technologies. You will be part of a forward‑thinking company that invests in its employees and promotes a culture of innovation. Enjoy the benefits of a remote position, including no commute and a flexible work‑life balance, while contributing to impactful projects in the manufacturing sector.