Industrial Automation Engineer | Plc, Hmi & Robotics (Hybrid)

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based incentives

Health insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to design, implement, and maintain PLC/SCADA/HMI systems for a food processing manufacturer in Mossel Bay. The role combines on-site oversight with remote design and programming, supporting safe, efficient production.

You will lead projects from conception to commissioning, work with mechanical, electrical and production teams, ensure safe operation, and stay current with automation technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in PLC programming and HMI development.
• Experience with robotic programming (KUKA/FANUC) is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of industrial networks, sensors, and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement PLC/SCADA/HMI automation solutions for manufacturing processes.
• Program and configure industrial robots, sensors, and control systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation system issues, minimizing downtime.
• Conduct feasibility studies and develop technical specifications for new automation projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on automation initiatives.
• Perform system integration and commissioning of new automated equipment.
• Develop and maintain automation documentation, including electrical schematics, P&IDs, and programming code.
• Stay current with industry advancements in automation technology and best practices.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards in all automation designs and implementations.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Robotic programming

Industrial networks

Electrical schematics

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens

Allen-Bradley

KUKA

FANUC

Job description

Automation Engineer - Manufacturing Systems

About the Role Our client, a leading manufacturer in the food processing industry, is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to join their team based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA. This role is crucial for designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems that enhance production efficiency, safety, and product quality. The engineer will work within a hybrid model, spending time on-site to oversee system integration and troubleshooting, and remotely for design, programming, and analysis. You will be responsible for the full lifecycle of automation projects, from conception to commissioning, ensuring seamless operation of robotic systems, PLCs, and HMI interfaces. This position requires a strong technical background, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement PLC/SCADA/HMI automation solutions for manufacturing processes.
• Program and configure industrial robots, sensors, and control systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation system issues, minimizing downtime.
• Conduct feasibility studies and develop technical specifications for new automation projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers and production staff, on automation initiatives.
• Perform system integration and commissioning of new automated equipment.
• Develop and maintain automation documentation, including electrical schematics, P&IDs, and programming code.
• Stay current with industry advancements in automation technology and best practices.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards in all automation designs and implementations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI development.
• Experience with robotic programming (e.g., KUKA, FANUC) is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of industrial networks, sensors, and control systems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration in a hybrid work environment.
• Experience in the food processing industry is an advantage.
• Willingness to travel to the Mossel Bay, Western Cape, ZA facility regularly for on-site work.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, comprehensive health insurance, and retirement fund contributions.
• The hybrid work model provides flexibility, balancing on-site engineering tasks with remote responsibilities.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth are readily available.
• Join a forward-thinking company committed to technological advancement in the food processing sector.