Industrial Controls Technician

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 620,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Training opportunities in automation

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Industrial Controls Technician for our client in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will install, program, and maintain PLCs and HMI panels, troubleshoot complex automation systems, and collaborate with engineering on upgrades.

A strong electrical background and hands-on experience with PLCs is essential. The role supports hybrid work with on-site and remote planning/diagnostics, contributing to uptime, safety, and efficiency in industrial environments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years experience as Industrial Controls Technician or similar in automation environments.
• Proficient with PLC brands (Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI software.
• Strong understanding of electrical theory and control system design.
• Familiar with industrial networks and protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profibus).
• Able to read complex electrical schematics and blueprints.
• Excellent problem-solving and teamwork, with both on-site and remote collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Install, program, and maintain PLC systems and HMI panels.
• Troubleshoot and repair automation control systems, identifying root causes.
• Calibrate and test control components for accuracy and reliability.
• Read electrical schematics and technical documentation.
• Collaborate with engineering to implement upgrades and modifications.
• Conduct regular inspections and preventative maintenance on systems.

Skills

PLC brands (Siemens, Allen-Bradley)

HMI software

Electrical theory

Control system design

Industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Prof

Education

Electrical Engineering / Mechatronics qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced manufacturing automation, is seeking a skilled Industrial Controls Technician to join their team based in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**. This role is critical for the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of sophisticated automated control systems within industrial settings. You will work with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), robotic systems, and other automation technologies to ensure seamless production operations. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, blending on-site duties with periods of remote analysis and planning, providing flexibility while ensuring critical operational needs are met. The ideal candidate possesses a keen eye for detail, a strong understanding of electrical systems, and a proactive approach to problem-solving in dynamic manufacturing environments. You will play a key role in optimizing system performance, minimizing downtime, and contributing to the overall efficiency and safety of our client's industrial operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, program, and maintain PLC systems, HMI panels, and related industrial control hardware.
• Troubleshoot and repair electrical and automation control systems, identifying root causes of failures.
• Perform calibration and testing of control system components to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical documentation.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to implement system upgrades and modifications.
• Conduct regular inspections and preventative maintenance on control systems and associated machinery.
• Assist in the commissioning of new equipment and automation projects.
• Ensure compliance with all safety standards and regulations applicable to industrial environments.
• Support on-site operations while also undertaking remote diagnostic analysis and planning.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of experience as an Industrial Controls Technician or in a similar role involving automation systems.
• Proficiency with various PLC brands (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI software.
• Solid understanding of electrical theory, control system design, and instrumentation.
• Experience with industrial networks and communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus).
• Ability to read and work from complex electrical schematics and blueprints.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities, suitable for both on-site and remote collaboration.
• A relevant qualification in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field is preferred.
• Must be able to travel to client sites in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal** and adhere to the hybrid work schedule.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including opportunities for advanced training in automation technologies and career progression. Employees have access to modern tools and diagnostic equipment, and the company fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. This role provides the chance to work on diverse and challenging projects within a stable and reputable organization. The hybrid model offers a balance between field engagement and independent work, contributing to a fulfilling professional experience in the **Richards Bay** industrial sector.