Industrial Automation Engineer - Chemical Processing

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Industrial Automation Engineer to enhance our chemical production facilities in Pretoria. The role covers design, implementation, and maintenance of automated control systems, with a focus on efficiency, safety, and advanced automation integration.

You will design and commission PLC/SCADA/HMI solutions, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate with process engineers to deploy new capabilities while ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics with automation focus.
• Minimum 6 years' experience in industrial automation, preferably in chemicals.
• Hands-on PLC programming across Siemens, Rockwell, Mitsubishi platforms.
• Experience with SCADA/HMI software like WinCC, Ignition or Wonderware.
• Solid understanding of process control, instrumentation and networks.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems for chemical processes.
• Develop automation strategies to boost efficiency, safety, and cost savings.
• Troubleshoot automation issues to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with process engineers to integrate new solutions.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Maintain documentation for control logic, schematics and manuals.
• Stay updated on automation advances and regulatory standards in chemical plants.
• Train maintenance and operations staff on automated systems.
• Perform system upgrades with minimal production disruption.

Skills

Automation design

Troubleshooting

Cross-functional collaboration

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

Mitsubishi PLC

WinCC

Ignition

Wonderware

Profibus

Ethernet/IP

SIL (Functional Safety)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant contributor to the chemical processing industry in Pretoria , is looking for a skilled Industrial Automation Engineer to enhance their manufacturing operations. This role focuses on the design, implementation, and maintenance of automated control systems for our complex chemical production facilities. You will be instrumental in improving process efficiency, ensuring operational safety, and integrating advanced automation technologies. The position involves a hybrid work model, balancing essential on-site work for system deployment and troubleshooting with off-site responsibilities for design, programming, and analysis. Your expertise will be crucial in optimizing our production lines and maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence in Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems for chemical processing equipment.
• Develop and implement automation strategies to improve production efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance safety.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation system issues, minimizing production downtime.
• Collaborate with process engineers and operations teams to integrate new automation solutions.
• Conduct root cause analysis for automation-related failures and implement corrective actions.
• Maintain detailed documentation for all automation systems, including control logic, schematics, and user manuals.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in industrial automation technology and recommend improvements.
• Ensure automation systems comply with industry standards and safety regulations specific to chemical plants.
• Provide training and technical support to maintenance and operations staff on automated systems.
• Perform system upgrades and modifications as required, ensuring minimal disruption to production.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field with a strong focus on automation.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in industrial automation engineering, preferably within the chemical industry.
• Proficiency in programming various PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell, Mitsubishi).
• Experience with SCADA/HMI software (e.g., WinCC, Ignition, Wonderware).
• Strong understanding of process control principles and instrumentation.
• Knowledge of industrial networks (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience with functional safety standards (e.g., SIL).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
• Must be comfortable with a hybrid work arrangement based in Pretoria .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, a provident fund, and annual performance bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and certifications in automation technologies.
• Access to advanced engineering tools and technologies.
• A dynamic hybrid work environment that encourages innovation and collaboration.
• Work on challenging and impactful projects within the chemical processing sector.