Industrial Automation Technician

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 280,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Paid annual leave and sick leave

Opportunities for advanced training

Tool allowance and safety gear

Paarl-based role

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Industrial Automation Technician in Paarl, Western Cape to install, maintain, program, and troubleshoot automated systems on production lines. You will work with PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, robotics, and networking to minimize downtime and optimize performance.

This role requires strong problem-solving skills, reading schematics, panel wiring, and collaborating with engineering and production teams.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Industrial Automation Technician or PLC programmer.
• Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting skills (Siemens S7, Rockwell Logix) and HMIs.
• Knowledge of VFDs, servo motors, robotics, and industrial protocols (Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Ability to read electrical schematics and P&ID diagrams.
• Experience with electrical panel building and wiring.
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities with a methodical approach.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Valid driver's license for travel within the Western Cape.
• Relevant technical qualification or degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field preferred.
• Commitment to safety and compliance with electrical codes.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and commission automated machinery and control systems.
• Program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLCs and HMIs.
• Diagnose and resolve electrical, mechanical, and software issues.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance on machinery.
• Read electrical schematics, blueprints, and manuals.
• Modify or upgrade automation systems to improve efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams on solutions.
• Ensure all work complies with safety standards and codes.
• Document configurations, troubleshooting steps, and logs.
• Provide technical support and training to operators.

Skills

Industrial Automation

PLC Programming

HMI Troubleshooting

VFDs & Servo Motors

Robotics

Schematics & P&ID

Electrical Panel Wiring

Industrial Networking

Problem Solving

Teamwork & Communication

Education

Electrical Engineering / Mechatronics degree or technical qualification

Tools

Siemens S7

Allen-Bradley Logix

HMI programming tools

Electrical CAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in manufacturing automation, is seeking a highly skilled Industrial Automation Technician to join their progressive team in Paarl, Western Cape . This pivotal role involves the installation, maintenance, programming, and troubleshooting of automated systems and machinery within a production environment. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), and robotics. You will be instrumental in ensuring the seamless operation of complex production lines, minimizing downtime, and optimizing efficiency. This is an excellent opportunity for a technically proficient individual to advance their career in a challenging and rewarding field, working with cutting-edge technology. Our client is committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and providing extensive professional development opportunities. If you have a passion for automation and thrive in an industrial setting that demands precision and innovation, this position in Paarl is an ideal fit. Our client values expertise, problem-solving capabilities, and a dedication to operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and commission automated machinery and control systems.
• Program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLCs (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMIs, and industrial networks.
• Diagnose and resolve electrical, mechanical, and software issues related to automated equipment.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance on machinery to ensure optimal performance and prevent failures.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical manuals.
• Modify or upgrade existing automation systems to improve efficiency or integrate new functionalities.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to identify automation solutions and improvements.
• Ensure all work complies with electrical codes, safety standards, and company policies.
• Document system configurations, troubleshooting steps, and maintenance logs accurately.
• Provide technical support and training to production staff on the operation of automated equipment.

Requirements

• Proven experience as an Industrial Automation Technician, PLC Programmer, or similar role.
• Strong proficiency in programming and troubleshooting PLCs (e.g., Siemens S7, Rockwell Logix) and HMIs.
• Knowledge of VFDs, servo motors, robotics, and industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and P&ID diagrams.
• Experience with electrical panel building and wiring.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a methodical approach.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Must possess a valid driver's license for travel within the Western Cape region.
• Relevant technical qualification or degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field is preferred.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe working environment and adhering to safety protocols.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package designed to attract and retain top talent, with regular performance reviews and potential for advancement.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave benefits.
• Opportunities for advanced training and certification in automation technologies.
• A stimulating work environment where innovation is encouraged.
• Our client also provides a tool allowance and necessary safety gear.
• This position is based in Paarl , offering significant career development in the automation sector.