Lead Industrial Automation Engineer

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional growth

Access to cutting-edge technology

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Industrial Automation Engineer for a state-of-the-art facility in Centurion, Gauteng. You will spearhead automation initiatives, designing, implementing, and optimizing systems to boost manufacturing efficiency, quality, and safety while leading a dedicated team.

You will manage projects from concept to commissioning, develop specifications, mentor engineers, and ensure compliance with ISO 13849 and other standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years in industrial automation engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Extensive experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell), SCADA systems, and HMI development.
• Strong understanding of robotic systems, motion control, and industrial networking.
• Proven ability to lead complex automation projects from inception to completion.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and team management abilities.
• Knowledge of safety standards for industrial automation (e.g., ISO 13849).

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced industrial automation systems, including robotics, PLCs, SCADA, and HMI.
• Oversee the entire project lifecycle for automation projects, from conception and feasibility studies to commissioning and final handover.
• Develop detailed technical specifications, schematics, and control logic for automated processes.
• Manage and mentor a team of automation engineers and technicians, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safety protocols for all automated systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to automation hardware and software.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the performance, reliability, and efficiency of existing automated systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, maintenance, and R&D, to identify automation opportunities.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in automation technology and industry best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or related field

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

SCADA

HMI

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and innovative Lead Industrial Automation Engineer to spearhead automation initiatives at their state-of-the-art facility in Centurion, Gauteng . This critical role will involve the design, implementation, and ongoing optimization of automated systems to enhance manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and operational safety. You will lead a dedicated team of engineers and technicians, driving technological advancements and ensuring seamless integration of complex automation solutions. This is an exceptional opportunity for a visionary engineer to make a significant impact on the future of industrial operations and manufacturing excellence within a thriving company.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced industrial automation systems, including robotics, PLCs, SCADA, and HMI.
• Oversee the entire project lifecycle for automation projects, from conception and feasibility studies to commissioning and final handover.
• Develop detailed technical specifications, schematics, and control logic for automated processes.
• Manage and mentor a team of automation engineers and technicians, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safety protocols for all automated systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to automation hardware and software.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance the performance, reliability, and efficiency of existing automated systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, maintenance, and R&D, to identify automation opportunities.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in automation technology and industry best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in industrial automation engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell), SCADA systems, and HMI development.
• Strong understanding of robotic systems, motion control, and industrial networking.
• Proven ability to lead complex automation projects from inception to completion.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and team management abilities.
• Knowledge of safety standards for industrial automation (e.g., ISO 13849).
• Experience in the Gauteng industrial sector is a plus.

Benefits

Our client provides a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and significant opportunities for professional growth and development. Employees enjoy access to cutting-edge technology, a supportive team environment, and the chance to work on challenging and impactful projects. This role is based in our modern facility in Centurion , offering a stable and dynamic work environment.