Industrial Automation Engineer - Robotics & Control Systems

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Bonuses

Professional development

Newest automation tech

Relocation assistance

Growth opportunities

Wellness programs

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Industrial Automation Engineer to design, implement, and maintain automated systems and robotics in Port Elizabeth, driving production efficiency and quality improvements.

You will work with cross-functional teams to integrate advanced automation, ensure safety compliance, and support installations and start-ups across our production lines. This role requires hands-on expertise and travel readiness for site activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficient in PLC languages Ladder Logic and Structured Text and HMI/SCADA software (Siemens TIA Portal, RSLogix).
• Experience with robotics programming and integration.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profibus).
• Knowledge of machine safety standards (ISO 13849).
• Excellent problem-solving, troubleshooting, and analytical skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks.
• Willingness to travel occasionally and work on-site in Port Elizabeth.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for industrial automation projects.
• Specify, integrate, and troubleshoot robotic systems (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB).
• Develop and implement industrial control strategies to optimize manufacturing processes.
• Work with electrical schematics, mechanical designs, and pneumatic/hydraulic systems.
• Collaborate with electrical and mechanical engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of automated solutions.
• Conduct root cause analysis for automation-related issues and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including programming code, schematics, and user manuals.
• Support the installation and start-up of new equipment and production lines.
• Ensure all automation systems comply with safety standards and regulations.
• Provide training to maintenance and operations personnel on automated systems.

Skills

Ladder Logic

Structured Text

Robotics programming

Industrial networking

Machine safety standards

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Communication & teamwork

Independent work

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, or related field

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Allen-Bradley RSLogix

Job description

About the Role

About the Role Our client, a leader in advanced manufacturing technologies, is looking for an experienced Industrial Automation Engineer to join their team in Port Elizabeth . This role is central to designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems and robotics that enhance production efficiency and quality. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in control systems engineering, PLC programming, HMI development, and industrial networking. You will work on cutting-edge projects, collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate sophisticated automation solutions into various manufacturing processes. This is a fantastic opportunity to work with advanced technologies and contribute to the modernization of industrial operations in Port Elizabeth . The position requires a hands-on approach and a deep understanding of automation principles. A commitment to safety and operational excellence is paramount.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for industrial automation projects.
• Specify, integrate, and troubleshoot robotic systems (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB).
• Develop and implement industrial control strategies to optimize manufacturing processes.
• Work with electrical schematics, mechanical designs, and pneumatic/hydraulic systems.
• Collaborate with electrical and mechanical engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of automated solutions.
• Conduct root cause analysis for automation-related issues and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including programming code, schematics, and user manuals.
• Support the installation and start-up of new equipment and production lines.
• Ensure all automation systems comply with safety standards and regulations.
• Provide training to maintenance and operations personnel on automated systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in PLC programming languages (e.g., Ladder Logic, Structured Text) and HMI/SCADA software (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Allen-Bradley RSLogix).
• Experience with industrial robotics programming and integration.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus).
• Knowledge of machine safety standards (e.g., ISO 13849).
• Excellent problem-solving, troubleshooting, and analytical skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Willingness to travel occasionally and work on-site in Port Elizabeth.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Access to the latest automation technologies and tools.
• Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.
• Stable work environment with opportunities for growth.
• Employee wellness programs.
• Paid time off and public holidays.