Industrial Automation Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Performance-based bonuses

Specialized training and certs

Hybrid work environment

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for an Industrial Automation Engineer to join a leading automotive manufacturer in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems and robotics to boost production efficiency and safety.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in electrical and mechanical engineering, PLC programming, and SCADA, with at least five years of hands-on experience and a drive to modernize manufacturing processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics or related.
• Minimum 5 years hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Strong programming skills in PLC platforms and HMI/SCADA development.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, robots, SCADA).
• Troubleshoot and maintain automation equipment to minimise downtime.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance and engineering to define requirements.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics and documentation.
• Identify opportunities for automation improvements and cost reductions.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.
• Provide technical support and training to staff.
• Stay updated with new automation technologies and evaluate adoption.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA development

Robotics

Industrial networking

Troubleshooting

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

FANUC Robotics

KUKA Robotics

Ethernet/IP

Profinet

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the automotive manufacturing industry, is seeking an innovative Industrial Automation Engineer to join their cutting-edge facility in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This role is essential for designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems and robotics that enhance production efficiency, quality, and safety. You will be at the forefront of technological advancement, working with state-of-the-art equipment and control systems. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in electrical and mechanical engineering, PLC programming, and SCADA systems, combined with a problem-solving aptitude. This is a prime opportunity to contribute to the modernization of manufacturing processes and drive operational excellence in a challenging and rewarding environment. You will be key to integrating advanced automation solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, robots, and SCADA systems.
• Troubleshoot and maintain existing automation equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, maintenance, and engineering, to define automation requirements and implement solutions.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including electrical schematics, program logic, and user manuals.
• Identify opportunities for automation improvements and propose innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Ensure automation systems comply with all relevant safety standards and regulations.
• Participate in the selection and evaluation of automation hardware and software vendors.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and operational staff on automated systems.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in automation technology and recommend adoption where appropriate.
• Manage automation projects from conception through to implementation and validation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Strong programming skills in common PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley) and experience with HMI/SCADA development.
• Proficiency in robot programming (e.g., FANUC, KUKA) and system integration.
• Knowledge of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet).
• Experience with vision systems and sensor technologies.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving abilities.
• Excellent understanding of electrical schematics and mechanical systems.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, with both on‑site presence and remote collaboration capabilities.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.

Benefits

• highly competitive salary
• comprehensive health insurance
• retirement fund benefits
• performance-based bonuses
• opportunities for specialized training and certifications
• a dynamic hybrid work environment

This role provides the chance to work with cutting‑edge automation technologies and offers significant opportunities for professional growth within a leading automotive manufacturer.