Automation Technician

Alliance Recruitment Agency; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

Alliance Recruitment Agency is seeking an experienced Automation Maintenance Engineer for FMCG environments in Gauteng. You will set up and calibrate filling/packing lines, diagnose issues, and perform preventative maintenance to ensure continuous production.

The role requires 5+ years of automation experience, strong PLC/HMI/SCADA skills, and a focus on safety and process optimization. Shifts including nights/weekends may be required.

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Automation or related field is required.
• Minimum 5 years of automation and maintenance experience in FMCG environments.
• Experience with filling and packing line equipment, PLCs, HMIs, and other automated systems is essential.
• Certifications in automation or industrial maintenance are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Set up, configure, and calibrate automated filling and packing lines to meet production requirements.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues with filling, packing, and other automated systems.
• Perform preventive maintenance and routine inspections to ensure optimal performance.
• Identify opportunities to improve automation processes and reduce downtime in collaboration with engineering and production teams.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities and provide detailed reports on equipment status and resolutions.
• Train production staff on basic troubleshooting and operation of automated systems and support safety audits and risk assessments.

Skills

Electrical & mechanical expertise

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA familiarity

Troubleshooting & repair

Continuous improvement mindset

Education

Diploma/degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Automation

Tools

Siemens PLCs

Allen-Bradley PLCs

SCADA systems

Maintenance tools

Job description

Key Responsibilities:

• Set up, configure, and calibrate automated filling and packing lines to meet production requirements.
• Ensure all equipment operates within specified parameters and standards.

Troubleshooting and Repairs:

• Diagnose and resolve technical issues with filling, packing, and other automated systems.
• Perform root cause analysis to prevent recurring problems and improve system reliability.

Preventive and General Maintenance:

• Conduct routine maintenance on automated machinery to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Perform inspections, lubrication, and replacement of worn parts as needed.

System Optimization:

• Identify opportunities to improve automation processes and reduce downtime.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to implement efficiency improvements.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, repairs, and equipment performance.
• Provide detailed reports on equipment status, issues, and resolutions.

Training and Support:

• Train production staff on basic troubleshooting and operation of automated systems.
• Provide technical support to operators and other team members as needed.

Compliance and Safety:

• Ensure all work is carried out in compliance with company safety standards and industry regulations.
• Participate in safety audits and risk assessments related to automated systems.

Other Duties:

• Assist in the installation and commissioning of new equipment.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and projects as required.

Qualifications and Experience:

Education:

• Diploma or degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation, or a related field.

Relevant certifications in automation, PLC programming, or industrial maintenance are highly desirable.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automation and maintenance within the FMCG industry.
• Proven experience with filling and packing line equipment, PLCs, HMIs, and other automated systems.

Technical Skills:

• Strong knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting and repairing automated machinery.
• Familiarity with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and SCADA systems.

Soft Skills:

• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Working Conditions:

• This role may require working in shifts, including nights and weekends, to support 24/7 production operations.
• The position involves working in a factory environment, which may include exposure to noise, dust, and varying temperatures.