Automation Systems Engineer

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance bonuses

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, is seeking an experienced Automation Systems Engineer to design, develop, and maintain industrial automation systems on our manufacturing lines.

You will work with PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and SCADA, ensuring safety and reliability while driving continuous improvement. A strong electrical engineering background and 5+ years of experience are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in PLC/ HMI/ SCADA programming.
• Experience with robotics is a plus.
• Strong electrical controls and instrumentation knowledge.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for manufacturing processes.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with automated machinery and control systems.
• Implement robotics and automated solutions to improve efficiency and safety.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics and control panel designs.
• Specify and select automation hardware components, sensors, and actuators.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safety standards and regulations for industrial automation.
• Collaborate with production and maintenance teams to minimize downtime and optimize system performance.
• Identify and propose improvements to existing automation systems.
• Provide technical support and training to operators and technicians.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology and best practices.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA programming

Robotics experience

Electrical controls

Instrumentation

Motor control systems

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics or related field

Tools

Siemens S7

Allen-Bradley

Wonderware

Ignition

CAD software

Profinet

EtherNet/IP

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading manufacturing company, is seeking an experienced Automation Systems Engineer to join their facility in **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga**. This role is vital for maintaining and enhancing the efficiency and reliability of their automated production lines. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, programming, and troubleshooting of industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and SCADA. The ideal candidate possesses a strong technical background in electrical engineering and automation, excellent problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to continuous improvement. You will work closely with production and maintenance teams to ensure seamless operation and identify opportunities for automation upgrades. We offer a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work with modern automation technologies. Join a team dedicated to operational excellence and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for manufacturing processes.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with automated machinery and control systems.
• Implement robotics and automated solutions to improve efficiency and safety.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics and control panel designs.
• Specify and select automation hardware components, sensors, and actuators.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safety standards and regulations for industrial automation.
• Collaborate with production and maintenance teams to minimize downtime and optimize system performance.
• Identify and propose improvements to existing automation systems.
• Provide technical support and training to operators and technicians.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in programming PLCs (e.g., Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley) and developing HMIs (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition).
• Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., ABB, KUKA) is a significant advantage.
• Strong understanding of electrical controls, instrumentation, and motor control systems.
• Knowledge of industrial networks (e.g., Profinet, EtherNet/IP).
• Experience with CAD software for electrical drawings.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a manufacturing environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in cutting-edge automation technologies.
• Work in a modern manufacturing facility in **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga**.
• Contribution to medical aid and pension fund.
• Potential for career advancement within the company.
• Performance bonuses and incentives.
• Annual leave and other company benefits.