Industrial Automation Engineer - PLC Specialist

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Medical aid and retirement fund benef其

Performance-related bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Randburg, Gauteng, is seeking an experienced Industrial Automation Engineer specializing in PLC programming to design, implement, and maintain automated control systems across production lines.

The role requires 7+ years in industrial automation, PLC/HMI development, and strong network knowledge, with a hybrid work model combining on-site tasks and remote monitoring. Collaboration with mechanical and electrical teams is essential for project success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years’ progressive experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Extensive PLC programming experience across Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley, and Mitsubishi platforms.
• Proficient in HMI/SCADA development and configuration.
• Strong knowledge of industrial networks (Profibus, Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Experience with robotics and servo systems is advantageous.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and test PLC logic for new and existing production lines.
• Develop and configure HMI screens for operator control and monitoring.
• Troubleshoot PLC systems, automation equipment, and electrical controls.
• Implement upgrades to improve performance and reliability.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical teams throughout projects.
• Perform system integration and commissioning for new equipment.
• Document programming code, P&IDs, and manuals.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance staff.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Industrial networks

Robotics knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Siemens S7

Allen-Bradley ControlLogix

Mitsubishi

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer in the automated goods production sector, is seeking an experienced Industrial Automation Engineer with a specialization in PLC programming to join their innovative team in Randburg, Gauteng. This role is pivotal in designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining automated control systems that drive their production lines. You will be responsible for programming PLCs, designing HMI interfaces, troubleshooting automation issues, and optimizing system performance to enhance efficiency and reduce downtime. This is a challenging and rewarding position that requires deep technical expertise in automation technologies and a proactive approach to problem-solving within a dynamic manufacturing environment. The role adopts a hybrid working model, blending on-site engineering tasks with remote system monitoring and development.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and test PLC logic for new and existing automated machinery and production lines.
• Develop and configure Human-Machine Interface (HMI) screens for operator control and monitoring.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with PLC systems, automation equipment, and electrical controls.
• Implement modifications and upgrades to existing automation systems to improve performance and reliability.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineering teams throughout the design and implementation phases of automation projects.
• Perform system integration and commissioning activities for new equipment installations.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for automation systems, including programming code, P&IDs, and operational manuals.
• Ensure automation systems comply with relevant safety standards and regulations.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance staff and operators on automation systems.
• Stay current with emerging technologies in industrial automation and propose improvements.
• Optimize automation processes for efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness in Randburg.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Extensive experience programming various PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, Mitsubishi).
• Proficiency in HMI/SCADA software development and configuration.
• Strong understanding of industrial networks (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Knowledge of industrial robotics and servo systems is a significant advantage.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and mechanical drawings.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and work independently in a hybrid capacity.
• Experience in a manufacturing or production environment is essential.

Benefits

• Annual salary of R , reflecting the senior level of the role.
• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge automation technologies in Gauteng.
• Be part of a highly innovative and growth-oriented company.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Performance-related bonuses.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility.
• Significant impact on production efficiency and future-proofing operations.