Junior Industrial Automation Technician Apprentice

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 67,000 - 112,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive practical training in工业冶

Mentorship from skilled engineers

Opportunities for career growth

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting for an Industrial Automation Technician Apprenticeship in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will work under engineers to install, maintain and troubleshoot automated equipment across production lines, gaining hands-on experience with PLCs and HMIs.

The role emphasizes practical training, safety compliance, and collaboration with production teams to reduce downtime and improve processes. This is a structured pathway for building a career in industrial automation.

Qualifications

• Interest in electrical and control systems.
• Ability to read technical drawings and manuals.
• Willingness to relocate to Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

Responsibilities

• Assist in installation and commissioning of automation equipment.
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration of machinery and control systems.
• Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and control system faults.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, and manuals.
• Support PLC/HMI programming and configuration.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Electrical principles

Reading schematics

Troubleshooting

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Tools

PLCs

HMIs

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent manufacturing and industrial services company located in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**, is seeking to recruit motivated individuals for their Industrial Automation Technician Apprenticeship program. This role provides an exceptional pathway for individuals keen on mastering the intricacies of industrial control systems, PLCs, and automated manufacturing processes. You will be involved in the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of complex automated machinery and systems that drive modern industrial operations. Working under the guidance of experienced engineers and technicians, you will gain practical, hands‑on experience in a vital sector of the economy. This position is crucial for ensuring the efficiency and reliability of our client's production lines and operational technology. It’s a fantastic opportunity to build a stable and rewarding career in a field that is constantly evolving with new technologies. The role is based at our client's facility in **Richards Bay**.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the installation and commissioning of industrial automation equipment.
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration of machinery and control systems.
• Troubleshoot and repair electrical, mechanical, and control system faults.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical manuals.
• Support the programming and configuration of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs).
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company procedures.
• Collaborate with production teams to minimize downtime and optimize processes.
• Participate in training sessions to enhance technical skills.
• Assist in updating technical documentation and maintenance logs.

Requirements

• A strong mechanical aptitude and an interest in electrical and control systems.
• Basic understanding of electrical principles and circuits.
• Ability to read and understand technical drawings and manuals.
• Good problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies in automation.
• Strong work ethic and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Must be physically fit and capable of working on a manufacturing floor.
• Must reside or be willing to relocate to the **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal** area.

Benefits

• Comprehensive practical training in industrial automation technologies.
• Mentorship from highly skilled engineers and technicians.
• Exposure to state-of-the-art manufacturing and automation systems.
• Opportunities for career growth and specialization within the company.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• A safe and supportive work environment.
• Contribution to skills development and potential for future qualifications.