Lead Automation Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Kempton Park; Remote; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

High salary and performance bonuses

Comprehensive benefits package

Professional development & certs

Flexible remote work

Generous paid time off

Cutting-edge technology projects

Home office stipend

Annual team retreats

Conference access

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Automation Engineer for a remote-first client pioneering advanced manufacturing automation. You will design, develop, and deploy complex automation solutions across global facilities, leveraging PLCs, robotics, HMI/SCADA, and AI-driven control systems.

You will lead a team of automation engineers, mentor junior staff, ensure project delivery from conception to deployment, and stay at the forefront of Industry 4.0 technologies in a flexible home-office environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Science, or related field (Master's preferred).
• 8+ years in industrial automation; 3+ years in lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive PLC platforms experience (Siemens, Allen-Bradley).
• Robot programming (FANUC, KUKA) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Strong control-system architecture, networks, and cybersecurity for industrial systems.
• Proven ability to lead complex automation projects from start to finish.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Experience with simulation software and virtual commissioning.
• Experience working in a remote team environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, programming, and implementation of complex automation systems (PLCs, robotics, HMI, SCADA).
• Architect innovative automation solutions to meet manufacturing challenges for clients.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to automation engineers.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation issues remotely to minimize downtime.
• Conduct feasibility studies and provide technical recommendations for new projects.
• Collaborate with clients' engineering and production teams to ensure integration.
• Develop and maintain design specs, programming logic, and operating manuals.
• Stay abreast of advancements in automation tech, robotics, and control systems.
• Oversee testing and validation before deployment.
• Contribute to development of standards and procedures for automation engineering.

Skills

Leadership

Remote collaboration

Problem solving

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/CS

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Siemens PLCs

Allen-Bradley PLCs

FANUC robotics

KUKA robotics

HMI/SCADA development

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a cutting-edge leader in the development and implementation of advanced manufacturing automation systems. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Automation Engineer to join our dynamic, fully remote team. This pivotal role involves designing, developing, and deploying sophisticated automation solutions that drive efficiency and innovation within manufacturing facilities globally. You will be at the forefront of technological advancement, working with state-of-the-art robotics, PLC systems, and AI-driven process control. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead significant projects, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to the strategic direction of automation initiatives from the comfort of your home office. Our client thrives on a remote-first culture, valuing autonomy, collaboration, and results. If you are passionate about shaping the future of manufacturing through automation and possess exceptional technical leadership skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, programming, and implementation of complex automation systems, including PLCs, robotics, HMI, and SCADA.
• Architect innovative automation solutions to meet specific manufacturing challenges and objectives for our client's partners.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of automation engineers, ensuring best practices and high-quality deliverables.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation system issues remotely, minimizing downtime for clients.
• Conduct feasibility studies and provide technical recommendations for new automation projects.
• Collaborate closely with clients' engineering and production teams to understand their needs and ensure successful integration of automation solutions.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, including design specifications, programming logic, and operating manuals.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology, robotics, and industrial control systems.
• Oversee the testing and validation of automation systems before deployment.
• Contribute to the development of standards and procedures for automation engineering within the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in industrial automation engineering, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience with various PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), robot programming (e.g., FANUC, KUKA), and HMI/SCADA development.
• Strong understanding of control system architecture, networked industrial communication protocols, and cybersecurity for industrial systems.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage complex automation projects from conception to completion.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Proficiency in simulation software and virtual commissioning tools.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with clients and internal teams.
• Proven experience working effectively in a remote team environment.
• Knowledge of Industry 4.0 concepts and implementation is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and retirement plans.
• Significant investment in professional development and certifications.
• Flexible remote working arrangements with opportunities for international collaboration.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Cutting‑edge technology and project opportunities.
• A culture that promotes innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Home office stipend for setup and maintenance.
• Annual team retreats (virtual or in‑person as applicable).
• Access to industry conferences and webinars.