Field Service Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental insurance

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off

Company vehicle

Fuel card

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Field Service Engineer to support clients in the Tembisa, Gauteng region. You will install, commission, and service industrial automation equipment, including PLCs, robotics, HMIs, and SCADA systems.

The ideal candidate has a background in electrical or mechanical engineering (or related fields) with at least four years of field service experience, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to travel locally.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 4 years field service experience in industrial automation.
• Proficient with PLC programming (Siemens, Rockwell) and HMI/SCADA.
• Strong understanding of electrical, mechanical, and software components of automated systems.

Responsibilities

• Install, commission, and maintain industrial automation equipment including PLCs, robotics, HMIs, and SCADA.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot technical issues promptly.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Provide on-site technical support and client training.
• Read schematics and diagnostic reports.
• Respond to emergency service calls and restore operations.
• Collaborate with engineering and support teams to resolve escalations.
• Maintain service reports and inventory records.
• Follow safety policies on client sites in Tembisa, Gauteng.

Skills

PLC programming

Robotics

Electrical engineering

HMI/SCADA

Diagnostics

Travel readiness

Customer service

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

HMI software

SCADA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a global leader in industrial automation solutions and is seeking a dedicated Field Service Engineer to serve the Tembisa, Gauteng region. This exciting opportunity involves installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting sophisticated automated systems for a diverse range of industrial clients. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in electrical engineering, robotics, or a related field, coupled with hands-on experience in field service. You will be instrumental in ensuring our clients' operations run smoothly and efficiently by providing expert technical support and timely interventions. This role requires a proactive approach and a passion for cutting-edge technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, commission, and maintain a variety of industrial automation equipment, including PLCs, robotics, HMI systems, and SCADA software.
• Perform diagnostic tests and troubleshooting to identify and resolve technical issues promptly and effectively.
• Conduct routine preventative maintenance on equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
• Provide on‑site technical support and training to client personnel on the operation and maintenance of installed systems.
• Read and interpret complex technical documentation, including schematics, manuals, and diagnostic reports.
• Respond to emergency service calls and provide timely resolutions to ensure client operational continuity.
• Collaborate with the internal engineering and support teams to resolve escalated technical challenges.
• Maintain accurate service reports, documentation, and inventory records.
• Adhere strictly to all safety protocols and company policies while on client sites in Tembisa, Gauteng.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in a field service engineering role, with a focus on industrial automation.
• Demonstrated expertise with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell), robotics, and HMI/SCADA systems.
• Strong understanding of electrical, mechanical, and software components of automated systems.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with a methodical approach to troubleshooting.
• Effective communication and customer service skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly.
• Willingness to travel within the Tembisa, Gauteng region and occasionally beyond as required.
• Proficiency in using diagnostic tools and software.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively to meet service commitments.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical and dental insurance, a retirement savings plan, and paid time off. This role provides opportunities for professional growth through specialized training programs and exposure to diverse industrial automation technologies. You will be part of a forward‑thinking company committed to innovation and customer success, working within a collaborative and supportive team environment. Company vehicle and fuel card provided for business use.