Automation Technician - Industrial Machinery

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking an Automation Technician to maintain and upgrade automated production lines. The role covers electrical, mechanical, and software aspects of automation, with a focus on safety and uptime of sophisticated manufacturing equipment.

The ideal candidate has a hands-on background in PLC programming, HMI development, and robotics with a minimum of 3 years in an industrial setting.

Qualifications

• National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as an Automation Technician in an industrial manufacturing environment.
• Proven PLC programming experience (Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI development.
• Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems, motors, drives, and sensors.
• Experience with robotic systems (FANUC, KUKA) is a significant advantage.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and safety mindset.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Install, calibrate, and maintain automated machinery, robotic systems, and control hardware.
• Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and software issues on automated production lines.
• Perform preventive maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity of equipment.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical manuals.
• Program and configure PLC systems, HMI panels, and other automation software.
• Assist in designing and implementing new automation solutions and upgrades.
• Work with production and engineering teams to minimize downtime during failures.
• Maintain records of maintenance activities, repairs, and calibration.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to automation and manufacturing processes.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Robotic systems

Electrical systems

P&ID reading

Troubleshooting

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Education

Electrical Engineering / Mechatronics / Industrial Automation degree

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

HMI software

FANUC / KUKA robotics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in industrial manufacturing, is seeking a skilled Automation Technician to join their operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is critical for the maintenance, troubleshooting, and upgrading of automated machinery and control systems within the production environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong hands-on understanding of electrical, mechanical, and software aspects of industrial automation. You will play a key role in ensuring the uptime and efficiency of our highly sophisticated manufacturing equipment. This is a hands-on position that requires precision, technical expertise, and a commitment to safety and operational excellence. We are looking for someone who is passionate about industrial technology and eager to contribute to a robust production facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, calibrate, and maintain automated machinery, robotic systems, and associated control hardware.
• Troubleshoot and repair electrical, mechanical, and software issues on automated production lines.
• Perform preventive maintenance tasks to ensure optimal performance and longevity of equipment.
• Read and interpret complex electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical manuals.
• Program and configure PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) systems, HMI (Human-Machine Interface) panels, and other automation software.
• Assist in the design and implementation of new automation solutions and upgrades.
• Work closely with production and engineering teams to minimize downtime during equipment failures.
• Ensure all work is performed in accordance with safety regulations and company policies.
• Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, repairs, and calibration.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to automation and manufacturing processes.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as an Automation Technician or similar role in an industrial manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI development.
• Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems, motors, drives, and sensors.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical schematics and P&IDs.
• Experience with robotic systems (e.g., FANUC, KUKA) is a significant advantage.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa and willing to work shifts if required.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including benefits such as medical aid, a pension fund, and performance-based incentives. Opportunities for further training and certification in advanced automation technologies are readily available. The role is based in a key industrial area of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a stable work environment. Employees benefit from working with cutting-edge technology and a supportive team. On-site parking and access to local amenities make commuting convenient. Our client is committed to employee growth and development.