Industrial Engineer - Automation Specialist

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, is seeking a specialized Industrial Engineer with a strong focus on automation to join our client’s agricultural technology company. You will design, implement, and maintain automated workflows, bridging traditional industrial engineering with modern robotics and control systems.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree in engineering, at least six years of experience in automation and robotics, and hands-on skills in PLC programming, HMI design, and MES

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field with a specialization in automation.
• At least 6 years of experience in industrial engineering, focused on automation and robotics implementation.
• Proven experience with PLC programming, HMI design, and robotic system integration.
• Strong understanding of industrial control systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and project management skills.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, schematics, and blueprints.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to various audiences.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize automated systems and robotic applications within manufacturing processes.
• Evaluate existing manual processes and identify opportunities for automation.
• Develop technical specifications for automated equipment and systems.
• Collaborate with equipment vendors and internal technical teams during installation and commissioning.
• Develop and execute testing and validation plans for automated solutions.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for automated systems.
• Conduct process analysis to ensure seamless integration of automation with existing workflows.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology and industry best practices.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Project management

Effective communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related with automation specialization

Tools

PLC programming

HMI design

Robotic system integration

MES basics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural technology company situated in Paarl, Western Cape, is seeking a specialized Industrial Engineer with a strong focus on automation. This role is critical for integrating advanced automation solutions into their manufacturing and operational processes to boost efficiency and precision. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of industrial engineering principles coupled with significant experience in robotics, automated systems, and control technologies. You will be instrumental in designing, implementing, and maintaining automated workflows. This is a unique opportunity for an engineer passionate about cutting‑edge technology to contribute to a forward‑thinking company in a beautiful region. We are looking for a hands‑on individual who can bridge the gap between traditional industrial engineering and modern automation practices. The role requires excellent technical acumen and problem‑solving skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize automated systems and robotic applications within manufacturing processes.
• Evaluate existing manual processes and identify opportunities for automation.
• Develop technical specifications for automated equipment and systems.
• Collaborate with equipment vendors and internal technical teams during installation and commissioning.
• Develop and execute testing and validation plans for automated solutions.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for automated systems.
• Conduct process analysis to ensure seamless integration of automation with existing workflows.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology and industry best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in automation.
• At least 6 years of experience in industrial engineering, with a significant portion focused on automation and robotics implementation.
• Proven experience with PLC programming, HMI design, and robotic system integration.
• Strong understanding of industrial control systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and project management skills.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, schematics, and blueprints.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to various audiences.
• Must possess the legal right to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• A competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and opportunities for professional growth are provided.