Industrial Automation Engineer

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical & dental

Provident fund

International training

Bonus opportunities

Paid annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an Industrial Automation Engineer for a leading mining technology company in Rustenburg, North West. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and maintaining advanced automation systems to boost safety, efficiency, and productivity in demanding industrial settings.

You will work with PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and SCADA while coordinating with electrical and mechanical teams to ensure seamless integration and peak system performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Engineering or closely related field.
• 6+ years hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in programming PLC platforms (Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI development.
• Experience with industrial robotics programming and integration.
• Strong understanding of SCADA, networking protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profibus), and sensors.
• Ability to read electrical schematics and technical drawings.
• Experience in project management and vendor coordination.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as needed.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, robotics, SCADA).
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation hardware/software issues.
• Optimize control strategies to improve efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Conduct root cause analysis for automation failures and implement fixes.
• Document automation systems (P&IDs, diagrams, user manuals).
• Collaborate with electrical/mechanical teams for integration.
• Stay updated on automation tech and propose adoption.
• Provide training/support to maintenance and operations staff.
• Manage automation projects from concept to completion within budget/timeline.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA

Robotics integration

Electrical schematics

Project management

Networking protocols

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

HMI development

SCADA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in mining technology and equipment, is seeking a talented Industrial Automation Engineer to join their forward‑thinking team in Rustenburg, North West . This role is critical for designing, implementing, and maintaining sophisticated automation systems that enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity in demanding industrial environments. The successful candidate will be at the forefront of integrating cutting‑edge technologies, including robotics, PLCs, and SCADA systems, into existing and new operational frameworks. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the technological advancement of a major industry player, working on challenging and impactful projects. You will be a key technical resource, ensuring our automated systems operate at peak performance and align with strategic business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and SCADA systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to automation hardware and software.
• Implement and optimize control strategies to improve process efficiency, product quality, and operational safety.
• Conduct root cause analysis for automation system failures and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for automation systems, including P&IDs, logic diagrams, and user manuals.
• Collaborate with electrical and mechanical engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of automated solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in industrial automation technologies and propose their adoption where beneficial.
• Provide technical training and support to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Manage automation‑related projects from concept to completion, ensuring adherence to budget and timeline.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and safety regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in programming various PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley) and HMI development.
• Experience with industrial robotics programming and integration.
• Strong understanding of SCADA systems, networking protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus), and sensor technologies.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and diagnostic skills.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical drawings.
• Experience in project management and vendor coordination.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as needed.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, extensive medical and dental coverage, a provident fund, and opportunities for international training and development.
• You will be part of a dynamic and innovative company culture that encourages creativity and professional growth.
• We provide a stimulating work environment with access to state‑of‑the‑art technology.
• Additional benefits include performance bonuses, paid annual leave, and opportunities to work on exciting, large‑scale projects.