Automation Technician - Industrial Machinery

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance-based incentives

On-site parking

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Automation Technician to join our client’s Richards Bay operations in KwaZulu-Natal. You will maintain, troubleshoot, and upgrade automated machinery and control systems on a busy production line, ensuring high uptime and safety across the facility.

The ideal candidate holds an Electrical, Mechatronics, or Industrial Automation qualification, with at least three years in industry, and strong PLC and HMI skills.

Qualifications

• National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or Industrial Automation.
• Minimum 3 years of experience as an Automation Technician in an industrial setting.
• Proven PLC programming experience (Siemens or Allen-Bradley) and HMI development.

Responsibilities

• Install, calibrate, and maintain automated machinery and control hardware.
• Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and software issues on production lines.
• Program and configure PLC and HMI systems.
• Read electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical manuals.
• Assist in design and implementation of automation upgrades.
• Maintain detailed maintenance records and safety compliance.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Troubleshooting

Education

National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, or a related technical field

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

FANUC robotics

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.