Industrial Engineer - Automation Specialist

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Industrial Engineer specializing in automation to design, implement, and optimize automated systems at our client’s Tembisa facilities in Gauteng. The role emphasizes hands-on development, integrated control strategies, and improving production efficiency and safety.

The successful candidate will work closely with production and engineering teams to deploy automation solutions, analyze processes, and ensure compliance with safety standards in a fast-paced manufacturing

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field.
• At least 4 years in industrial engineering with automation focus.
• Experience with PLC programming, robotics, and HMI.
• Knowledge of Lean manufacturing and industrial networks.
• Strong analytical and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze current production lines to identify automation opportunities and system integration.
• Design automated systems including robotics and conveyors with vendors and internal teams.
• Oversee installation, commissioning and validation of new automated equipment.
• Develop robust control strategies and programming for automated machinery.
• Troubleshoot issues to minimize downtime on automated systems.
• Create training for operators and maintenance staff on automated equipment.
• Ensure safety standards and industry regulations are met.
• Monitor emerging automation tech and assess applicability to operations in Tembisa.
• Collaborate with IT and OT teams for data integration.

Skills

Industrial Engineering

Automation

PLC programming

Robotics

HMI development

Lean Manufacturing

Education

Bachelor's degree in IE

Tools

FANUC robotics

KUKA robotics

PLC programming software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the automotive supply chain, is looking for an innovative Industrial Engineer with a specialization in automation to join their facilities in **Tembisa, Gauteng**. This role is pivotal in designing, implementing, and optimizing automated systems to enhance production efficiency, safety, and product quality. The successful candidate will be instrumental in leveraging cutting‑edge technology to streamline operations and maintain our client's competitive edge. This is a hands‑on role demanding both theoretical knowledge and practical application in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment. You will be working closely with the production and engineering teams to integrate new automation solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Analyze current production lines and identify opportunities for automation and system integration. Design and specify automated systems, including robotics, conveyor systems, and control logic, in collaboration with vendors and internal engineering teams. Oversee the installation, commissioning, and validation of new automated equipment and systems. Develop and implement robust control strategies and programming for automated machinery. Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to automated systems to minimize downtime. Develop and conduct training programs for operators and maintenance staff on automated equipment. Ensure all automated systems comply with relevant safety regulations and industry standards. Stay abreast of emerging automation technologies and assess their applicability to our client's operations in **Tembisa**. Collaborate with IT and OT teams for seamless data integration and system connectivity.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline. At least 4 years of experience in industrial engineering, with a significant focus on automation and control systems within manufacturing. Proven experience with PLC programming, robotics (e.g., FANUC, KUKA), and HMI development. Strong understanding of industrial networks and communication protocols. Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and their application in automated environments. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills. Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and control system documentation. Good communication and teamwork skills, with experience working in a production environment. Familiarity with safety standards for industrial automation is essential.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, and a provident fund. Opportunities for professional growth and development, including specialized training in automation technologies, are provided. This role offers the chance to work with state-of-the-art technology in a key manufacturing hub of **Gauteng**. Contribute to impactful projects that drive efficiency and innovation in a supportive and challenging work environment located in **Tembisa**.