Junior Automation Engineer

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Training and mentorship program

Health insurance and retirement plan

Hybrid work model

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Junior Automation Engineer to join the Randburg manufacturing and production team. The role offers hands-on experience in PLC programming, HMI development, and robot integration, with mentorship from senior engineers.

The ideal candidate has a foundational degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics, strong problem-solving ability, and a willingness to learn in a hybrid on-site/remote environment in Randburg, Gauteng.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Basic understanding of PLC programming principles and HMI software.
• Familiarity with industrial automation concepts and technologies.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Eagerness to learn and develop expertise in automation engineering.

Responsibilities

• Assist in designing and developing automated control systems for manufacturing processes.
• Program and troubleshoot PLCs (Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMIs.
• Collaborate on robot integration and motion control systems.
• Perform electrical and mechanical troubleshooting of automated equipment.
• Assist in commissioning and validation of new automation systems.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation (electrical schematics, user manuals).
• Support ongoing maintenance and optimization of existing automation solutions.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to automation and efficiency.
• Adhere to safety standards and company policies; work in a hybrid model (on-site and remote).

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Schematic interpretation

Analytical thinking

Teamwork

Communication

Learning mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

HMI software

CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an ambitious and motivated Junior Automation Engineer to join their innovative manufacturing and production team in Randburg, Gauteng, ZA . This role offers an excellent opportunity for an early-career engineer to gain hands-on experience in designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems that drive efficiency and productivity in our plant. You will work closely with senior engineers on various automation projects, from concept to completion, including PLC programming, HMI development, and robot integration. The ideal candidate will have a solid foundation in electrical or mechanical engineering with a strong interest in automation technology. This hybrid role allows for collaboration with on-site teams while also accommodating remote work for specific tasks, fostering a flexible and productive environment in the Randburg area.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and development of automated control systems for manufacturing processes.
• Program and troubleshoot PLCs (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMIs.
• Collaborate with the engineering team on robot integration and motion control systems.
• Perform electrical and mechanical troubleshooting of automated equipment.
• Assist in the commissioning and validation of new automation systems.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including electrical schematics and user manuals.
• Support ongoing maintenance and optimization of existing automation solutions.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to automation and efficiency.
• Adhere to all safety standards and company policies during project execution and support.
• Work effectively in a hybrid model, participating in on-site meetings and development while completing other tasks remotely.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Basic understanding of PLC programming principles and HMI software.
• Familiarity with industrial automation concepts and technologies.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Eagerness to learn and develop expertise in automation engineering.
• Experience with CAD software is a plus.
• Previous internship experience in a relevant field is highly regarded.
• Must be comfortable working in a hybrid capacity, with flexibility for on-site and remote work.

Benefits

• Comprehensive training and mentorship program to accelerate your career.
• Competitive starting salary with regular performance reviews.
• Health insurance and retirement savings plan options.
• Generous annual leave and public holiday allowances.
• Exposure to cutting-edge automation technologies and projects.
• A collaborative and innovative work culture.
• Opportunities for professional growth and certification.
• Hybrid work model providing flexibility.