Control Systems Engineer - Automation & PLC Programming

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 650,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual performance bonus

Private health insurance

Retirement annuity

Training & certifications

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Control Systems Engineer for our client in Gauteng to design, implement, and maintain advanced automation systems in a plant setting. This on-site role focuses on PLC, HMI/SCADA integration, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure production efficiency and safety.

The ideal candidate has a electrical/mechatronics background, 5+ years of automation experience, and strong PLC/HMI skills across multiple platforms.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• 5+ years in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proven PLC programming experience across IEC 61131-3 and multiple PLC platforms.
• Strong knowledge of HMI/SCADA software and network protocols (Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience with robotics and motion control is a plus.
• Familiarity with ISO 13849 and functional safety principles.
• Excellent problem-solving, diagnostic, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and troubleshoot PLCs for industrial machines and processes (Siemens, Allen‑Bradley, Schneider).
• Develop and implement HMI/SCADA systems for process visualization and control.
• Integrate sensors, drives, robotics, and vision systems into automation solutions.
• Create documentation including control narratives and wiring diagrams.
• Conduct on-site system commissioning, testing, calibration, and validation.
• Provide training and technical support to maintenance teams and operators.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers for integrated design.
• Identify process improvement opportunities and upgrade control systems.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Robotics & motion control

Safety standards

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

Schneider Electric PLC

HMI/SCADA software

Modbus/Profibus/Ethernet/IP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer in the industrial automation sector, is looking for a talented Control Systems Engineer to join their operations in Tembisa, Gauteng . This role is crucial for the design, implementation, and maintenance of sophisticated automation systems that drive production efficiency. You will be at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge PLC, HMI, and SCADA technologies into complex manufacturing processes. This is an exciting opportunity for an engineer passionate about automation and control, seeking to work with advanced technologies in a hands‑on, plant‑based environment. The position is based on‑site, requiring dedicated presence to ensure operational continuity and immediate response to system needs. We are committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technological excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and troubleshoot Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) for various industrial machines and processes (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider Electric).
• Develop and implement Human‑Machine Interface (HMI) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for process visualization and control.
• Integrate various automation components, including sensors, drives, robotics, and vision systems.
• Develop and maintain detailed documentation, including control narratives, logic diagrams, wiring schematics, and user manuals.
• Perform system commissioning, including on‑site testing, calibration, and validation of control systems.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance teams and plant operators.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure integrated system design and functionality.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization and implement control system upgrades to enhance efficiency and reduce downtime.
• Adhere strictly to safety protocols and industry best practices during all stages of design and implementation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proven expertise in PLC programming (IEC 61131-3 standard) and experience with multiple PLC platforms.
• Strong knowledge of HMI/SCADA software and networking protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience with industrial robotics and motion control systems is a plus.
• Understanding of industrial safety standards (e.g., ISO 13849) and functional safety principles.
• Excellent problem‑solving, diagnostic, and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with cross‑functional teams.
• Must be willing to travel occasionally to project sites and vendor locations.

Benefits

This role comes with a highly competitive salary package, supplemented by an annual performance bonus and extensive benefits, including comprehensive private health insurance and a retirement annuity. Our client invests in its employees through ongoing training programs, opportunities for international certifications, and clear career progression paths. You will be part of a forward‑thinking company that values innovation and employee well‑being, with access to state‑of‑the‑art technology and equipment in our Tembisa facility.