Automation Technician

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 480,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid contributions

Retirement fund

Advanced technical training

Modern facility

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Automation Technician in Kimberley, Northern Cape to install, maintain, and troubleshoot automated systems on the production floor. The role requires hands-on expertise across electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic domains and a proactive approach to uptime and efficiency.

The ideal candidate has a National Diploma or Degree in a related field and 3–5 years of experience working with PLCs (Siemens, Allen-Bradley), robotics, and HMIs.

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in electrical, mechanical, or mechatronics engineering.
• 3–5 years of hands-on automation technician experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with PLCs (Siemens, Allen-Bradley), robotics, and HMIs.
• Strong understanding of electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Ability to read complex electrical and mechanical schematics and diagrams.

Responsibilities

• Install, commission, and maintain automated machinery and control systems.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Diagnose and resolve technical issues with PLCs, robots, and HMIs.
• Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic faults efficiently.
• Read and interpret schematics and manuals for repairs.
• Collaborate with engineers and production staff on upgrades and modifications.
• Ensure safety and compliance with policies and standards.
• Maintain records of maintenance, repairs, and parts inventory.
• Participate in training to stay updated on automation technologies.

Skills

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

National Diploma or Degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

Robotics

HMI systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced manufacturing solutions based in Kimberley, Northern Cape , is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Automation Technician . This hands-on role is essential for the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of automated systems and machinery on the production floor. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical expertise in electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems, coupled with a proactive approach to ensuring operational uptime and efficiency. This is a critical on-site position located in Kimberley, Northern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Install, commission, and maintain automated machinery and control systems.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance to minimize downtime and extend equipment lifespan.
• Diagnose and resolve complex technical issues with automated equipment, including PLCs, robots, and HMI systems.
• Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic faults efficiently and effectively.
• Read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and manuals to guide repairs and maintenance.
• Collaborate with engineers and production staff to implement upgrades and modifications to automation systems.
• Ensure all work is performed safely and in compliance with company policies and industry standards.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, repairs, and parts inventory.
• Participate in training to stay updated on the latest automation technologies and techniques.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of automation processes and equipment reliability.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.
• A minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on experience as an Automation Technician or similar role in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting and repairing PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), robotics, and HMI interfaces.
• Strong understanding of electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Ability to read and understand complex electrical and mechanical schematics.
• Experience with industrial control systems and instrumentation.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Willingness to work shifts or overtime as required by production demands.
• Must be based in or able to commute reliably to Kimberley, Northern Cape .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, reflecting the critical nature of this role and the required technical skills. The company provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid contributions and a retirement fund to support employee welfare. Opportunities for advanced technical training and professional development are available, ensuring technicians remain at the forefront of automation technology. Employees work in a modern facility with state-of-the-art equipment and benefit from a collaborative team environment. Standard annual leave and all legally mandated employee benefits are provided.