Field Service Technician - Automation

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 360,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Company vehicle provided

Advanced training and certifications

Hybrid work environment

Medical and retirement benefits

Tools and equipment provided

Travel allowances

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Field Service Technician to support clients in Pretoria and surrounding regions. You will travel to client sites to install, maintain and repair advanced automation systems, balancing on-site work with remote diagnostics in a hybrid role.

The role requires PLC programming and troubleshooting (Siemens, Allen‑Bradley), robotics know‑how, and the ability to read schematics. You will provide timely technical support, document service reports, and ensure safety standards are

Qualifications

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience as a Field Service Technician or in a similar technical support role within the automation industry.
• Demonstrated experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley).
• Familiarity with industrial robotics and servo systems.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Excellent diagnostic and problem-solving skills with a methodical approach.
• Ability to work independently, manage travel schedules, and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Strong customer service and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients.
• Valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and occasional overnight travel when required.
• Knowledge of the Pretoria industrial sector is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Install, commission, and configure automation equipment on-site.
• Perform preventative maintenance and inspections for optimal system performance.
• Troubleshoot PLC, HMI, and robotics systems.
• Provide remote and on-site technical support.
• Read schematics and documentation to perform service tasks.
• Maintain service reports and spare parts inventory.
• Collaborate with engineering and sales for product feedback and client needs.
• Ensure safety standards are followed.
• Travel extensively within the service area to meet client requirements.

Skills

Field service

Troubleshooting

Customer communication

Independent worker

Travel readiness

Education

Electrical Engineering / Mechatronics degree

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

Profinet

Ethernet/IP

Industrial Robotics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing provider of advanced automation solutions, is seeking a dedicated Field Service Technician to support clients across Pretoria and surrounding regions. This role involves travelling to client sites to install, maintain, and repair sophisticated automated systems, ensuring minimal disruption to their operations. The successful candidate will possess a strong technical aptitude for PLC systems, robotics, and industrial networking. This position offers a compelling opportunity to engage with cutting‑edge technology and contribute to critical industrial processes. The role requires a flexible approach, blending on‑site client support with remote diagnostics and administrative tasks, hence the hybrid work model. You will be a key point of contact for clients, providing exceptional technical support and building strong working relationships within the Pretoria industrial community.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform on-site installation, commissioning, and configuration of automation equipment and systems.
• Conduct routine preventative maintenance and inspections to ensure optimal system performance.
• Troubleshoot and repair complex hardware and software issues on PLC, HMI, and robotic systems.
• Provide prompt and effective technical support to clients, both on-site and remotely.
• Interpret technical documentation, schematics, and blueprints to perform service and repair tasks.
• Manage service requests efficiently, ensuring timely resolution and client satisfaction.
• Maintain accurate service reports, logs, and inventory of spare parts.
• Collaborate with the engineering and sales teams to provide feedback on product performance and client needs.
• Ensure all work is performed in accordance with company safety standards and procedures.
• Travel extensively within the designated service area to meet client requirements.

Requirements

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience as a Field Service Technician or in a similar technical support role within the automation industry.
• Demonstrated experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley).
• Familiarity with industrial robotics and servo systems.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Excellent diagnostic and problem‑solving skills with a methodical approach.
• Ability to work independently, manage travel schedules, and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Strong customer service and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients.
• Valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and occasional overnight travel when required.
• Knowledge of the Pretoria industrial sector is beneficial.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with performance incentives.
• Company vehicle provided for business travel.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications.
• Exposure to innovative automation technologies and diverse client projects.
• A structured hybrid work environment balancing field and office/remote duties.
• Contribution to a growing and dynamic technology company.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Tools and equipment provided for field service operations.
• Supportive team culture focused on client success.
• Travel allowances and per diems as applicable.