Industrial Engineer - Automation and Robotics Integration

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Competitive salary

Medical & dental cover

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Industry conferences

Home-office setup support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an innovative Industrial Engineer to drive automation and robotics integration across operations from anywhere in South Africa. You will identify automation opportunities, design robotic work cells and ensure smooth tech integration into existing production lines, leveraging PLCs, HMI and AI-driven systems.

You should have a strong industrial engineering background, 6+ years in manufacturing automation, and proven ability to work remotely with cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
• 6+ years in industrial engineering with a focus on automation and robotics.
• Experience designing, implementing and commissioning automated systems and robotic cells (FANUC, KUKA, ABB).
• Strong PLC programming, HMI and industrial communication knowledge.
• CAD/CAM and simulation tools familiarity.
• Excellent problem-solving and remote team communication skills.
• Familiarity with Industry 4.0 concepts and smart factories.
• Legally eligible to work in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Identify automation and robotics opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Design robotic work cells, including tooling, safety systems and integration with equipment.
• Develop detailed project plans with timelines and budgets.
• Collaborate with external vendors, system integrators and internal teams.
• Develop control logic and programming for automated systems and robots.
• Conduct feasibility studies and ROI analyses for automation projects.
• Develop training programs for operators and maintenance staff.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation and robotics issues.
• Stay current with advancements in robotics, automation and AI in manufacturing.
• Contribute to digital transformation by integrating smart automation solutions.

Skills

Automation

Robotics

Project management

Remote teamwork

PLC programming

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

FANUC

KUKA

ABB

PLC/HMI

CAD/CAM

Simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer in the automotive components sector, is seeking a highly innovative Industrial Engineer to drive the integration of automation and robotics across its operations. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere in South Africa. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in identifying opportunities for automation, designing robotic work cells, and ensuring the seamless integration of new technologies into existing production lines. This role demands a blend of strong industrial engineering fundamentals and a deep understanding of automation technologies, including robotics, PLCs, and AI-driven systems. We are looking for a forward-thinking individual who can help us build the next generation of smart factories.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate opportunities for automation and robotics to improve efficiency, quality, and safety in manufacturing processes.
• Design and specify robotic work cells, including robot selection, end-of-arm tooling, safety systems, and integration with existing equipment.
• Develop detailed project plans for the implementation of automation and robotics solutions, managing timelines and budgets.
• Collaborate with external automation vendors, system integrators, and internal engineering teams.
• Develop and optimize control logic and programming for automated systems and robotic platforms.
• Conduct feasibility studies and ROI analyses for proposed automation projects.
• Develop training programs for operators and maintenance staff on new automated systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to automation and robotic systems.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in robotics, automation, and AI in manufacturing.
• Contribute to the overall digital transformation strategy by integrating smart automation solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in industrial engineering, with a significant focus on automation, robotics, and system integration in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience in designing, implementing, and commissioning automated systems and robotic cells (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB).
• Strong understanding of PLC programming, HMI development, and industrial communication protocols.
• Knowledge of CAD/CAM software and simulation tools for automation design.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work with complex technical challenges.
• Strong project management and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment.
• Familiarity with Industry 4.0 concepts and smart factory initiatives.
• Must be legally eligible to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• This is a fully remote position, offering excellent flexibility and work-life balance.
• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with your experience and expertise in automation.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical and dental coverage, substantial contributions to a retirement fund, and performance-based bonuses.
• We provide significant opportunities for professional development, including access to specialized training, certifications, and industry conferences.
• You will be part of an innovative team that is shaping the future of manufacturing through advanced automation.
• Join us and be at the forefront of technological advancement in the industry, contributing from your home office.
• Our client is based in Gauteng .