Lead Industrial Automation Engineer

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and retirement benefits

Relocation assistance

International training opportunities

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Industrial Automation Engineer to spearhead automation initiatives in Kimberley, Northern Cape. You will design, implement, and maintain advanced automation systems, leading a team of engineers and technicians across PLC, HMI/SCADA, and robotics projects.

The role requires a strong background in industrial control systems, safety standards, and a proactive, innovative mindset to drive efficiency and reliability at scale. Willingness to relocate to Kimberley is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years in industrial automation engineering with 2+ years in lead/supervisory role.
• Proven experience with Rockwell, Siemens or Schneider PLCs and HMI/SCADA development.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of complex automation and control systems across plant operations.
• Mentor and manage automation engineers and technicians, providing guidance and feedback.
• Develop and maintain PLC, HMI, and SCADA logic for new and existing equipment.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Robotics

Industrial networks

Leadership

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the mining and heavy industry sector, is actively seeking a highly skilled and visionary Lead Industrial Automation Engineer to spearhead their automation initiatives in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This is a critical role focused on designing, implementing, and maintaining advanced automation systems that will revolutionize our client's operational efficiency and safety standards. The successful candidate will lead a team of engineers and technicians, driving innovation in areas such as PLC programming, SCADA systems, robotics, and IoT integration. We are looking for a proactive leader with a deep understanding of industrial control systems and a passion for leveraging technology to solve complex engineering challenges. Join a forward-thinking organization committed to technological advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of complex industrial automation and control systems across various plant operations.
• Manage and mentor a team of automation engineers and technicians, providing technical guidance and performance feedback.
• Develop and maintain PLC, HMI, and SCADA system logic and programming for new and existing equipment.
• Oversee the integration of robotics, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and other automated components into plant infrastructure.
• Ensure the reliability, uptime, and performance of all automated systems through proactive monitoring and maintenance strategies.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation hardware and software issues, minimizing downtime.
• Collaborate with other engineering disciplines (mechanical, electrical, process) to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in industrial automation technology and recommend innovative solutions.
• Develop and enforce automation standards, best practices, and safety protocols.
• Manage automation project budgets, timelines, and vendor relationships.
• Conduct training sessions for operational staff on the use and maintenance of automated systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in industrial automation engineering, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience with PLC programming (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider Electric) and HMI/SCADA system development.
• Proficiency in industrial networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus) and system integration.
• Experience with robotics programming and integration is a significant advantage.
• Strong understanding of electrical schematics, control panel design, and industrial safety standards.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and diagnostic skills.
• Proven leadership and team management capabilities.
• Strong project management skills, including budget and schedule management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Willingness to work in the Kimberley, Northern Cape region and potentially travel to various sites.

Benefits

• An attractive salary package reflecting your expertise and leadership.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Generous annual leave and paid public holidays.
• Opportunities for international training and professional certifications.
• Exposure to cutting-edge automation technologies and large-scale industrial projects.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for exceptional candidates.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment focused on innovation.