Head of Industrial Automation & Robotics

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Industrial Automation Engineer to spearhead automation initiatives at a Centurion facility. You will design, implement, and optimize automated systems to boost manufacturing efficiency, quality, and safety, while leading a team of engineers and technicians.

Responsibility spans PLC/SCADA/HMI development, robotics integration, and risk management, with a focus on delivering reliable, industry-compliant solutions across complex projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in industrial automation engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience with PLC programming (Siemens, Rockwell), SCADA systems, and HMI development.
• Strong understanding of robotic systems, motion control, and industrial networking.
• Proven ability to lead complex automation projects from inception to completion.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and team management abilities.
• Knowledge of safety standards for industrial automation (e.g., ISO 13849).
• Experience in the Gauteng industrial sector is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced industrial automation systems, including robotics, PLCs, SCADA, and HMI.
• Oversee the entire project lifecycle for automation projects, from conception and feasibility studies to commissioning and final handover.
• Develop detailed technical specifications, schematics, and control logic for automated processes.
• Manage and mentor a team of automation engineers and technicians, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safety protocols for all automated systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to automation hardware and software.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the performance, reliability, and efficiency of existing automated systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, maintenance, and R&D, to identify automation opportunities.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in automation technology and industry best practices.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA

HMI development

Robotics

Motion control

Industrial networking

Leadership

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Industrial Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

SCADA systems

HMI development tools

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Industrial Automation Engineer to spearhead automation initiatives at a Centurion facility. You will design, implement, and optimize automated systems to boost manufacturing efficiency, quality, and safety, while leading a team of engineers and technicians.

Responsibility spans PLC/SCADA/HMI development, robotics integration, and risk management, with a focus on delivering reliable, industry-compliant solutions across complex projects.