Control Systems Engineer - Automation

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid annual leave

On-site parking

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Control Systems Engineer specializing in automation to join its industrial manufacturing division in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on design, programming, implementation, and maintenance of automated control systems for production machinery and processes, with on-site responsibilities and a hands-on approach.

You will work with PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, and industrial networks, collaborating with production teams to drive continuous improvement, safety, and

Qualifications

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems.
• Proficiency with PLC programming languages (e.g., Ladder Logic, Structured Text) and platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell Automation/Allen-Bradley).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software development and configuration.
• Strong understanding of industrial networks (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Knowledge of VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives) and servo systems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Excellent problem-solving and diagnostic skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities for effective collaboration with on-site teams.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement PLC programs for various industrial machines and processes.
• Configure and program HMI screens for operator control and system monitoring.
• Develop and maintain SCADA systems for plant-wide data acquisition and control.
• Integrate various automation components, including sensors, actuators, drives, and robotic systems.
• Perform troubleshooting and root cause analysis of control system failures and implement corrective actions.
• Conduct regular maintenance and calibration of control system hardware and software.
• Develop and execute test plans for new control system implementations and upgrades.
• Ensure all control system designs comply with relevant industry safety standards and regulations.
• Collaborate with production teams to identify areas for automation improvements and efficiency gains.
• Document control system designs, logic, and operating procedures thoroughly.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Industrial networks

VFDs/Servo systems

Schematic reading

Problem solving

Teamwork

Education

Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics degree

Tools

Siemens PLCs

Allen-Bradley/Rockwell

HMI/SCADA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled Control Systems Engineer specializing in Automation to join their industrial manufacturing division in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This is an on-site position requiring full commitment to the company's facility. You will be responsible for the design, programming, implementation, and maintenance of automated control systems for production machinery and processes. This role demands a practical, hands-on approach, coupled with a strong theoretical understanding of industrial automation, PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems. The successful candidate will contribute to enhancing operational efficiency, improving product quality, and ensuring the safety and reliability of our automated manufacturing lines. We are looking for an individual who is passionate about automation technology and thrives in a fast-paced industrial environment. This is a key role within our operations, driving continuous improvement through intelligent control solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programs for various industrial machines and processes.
• Configure and program HMI (Human-Machine Interface) screens for operator control and system monitoring.
• Develop and maintain SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems for plant-wide data acquisition and control.
• Integrate various automation components, including sensors, actuators, drives, and robotic systems.
• Perform troubleshooting and root cause analysis of control system failures and implement corrective actions.
• Conduct regular maintenance and calibration of control system hardware and software.
• Develop and execute test plans for new control system implementations and upgrades.
• Ensure all control system designs comply with relevant industry safety standards and regulations.
• Collaborate with production teams to identify areas for automation improvements and efficiency gains.
• Document control system designs, logic, and operating procedures thoroughly.

Requirements

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency with PLC programming languages (e.g., Ladder Logic, Structured Text) and platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell Automation/Allen-Bradley).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software development and configuration.
• Strong understanding of industrial networks (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Knowledge of VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives) and servo systems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Excellent problem-solving and diagnostic skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities for effective collaboration with on-site teams.
• Willingness to work flexible hours during critical system commissioning or troubleshooting.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary package and benefits, including a performance bonus scheme, comprehensive medical aid, and a retirement fund.
• Opportunities for professional development and training on the latest automation technologies are provided.
• The company culture emphasizes continuous improvement and innovation.
• Employees receive generous annual leave and other statutory benefits.
• On-site parking is available.
• Access to modern engineering tools and resources within the facility is guaranteed.
• This role offers a stable career path within a leading manufacturing company, with opportunities to work on diverse and challenging automation projects in a collaborative team environment.