Lead Industrial Engineer - Automation and Systems Integration

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement funding

Life insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Industrial Engineer in Pretoria to spearhead automation and systems integration initiatives. The hybrid role focuses on identifying opportunities for automation, designing solutions, and guiding implementation to boost production efficiency and product quality.

The candidate should have a Master’s in Industrial Engineering and at least 8 years in automation, robotics, and systems integration within manufacturing, with strong PLC/HMI/SCADA expertise and leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 8 years in industrial engineering with focus on automation and systems integration.
• Proven track record leading complex automation projects from concept to completion.
• Strong knowledge of PLC programming, HMI, robotics, and SCADA.

Responsibilities

• Identify automation technologies to improve processes, throughput, and costs.
• Lead design, development, and implementation of automated production systems including robotics and PLCs.
• Oversee system integration projects and data flow between equipment and enterprise systems.
• Develop detailed project plans, manage budgets, and coordinate cross-functional teams.
• Conduct feasibility studies and ROI analyses for automation projects.
• Create and maintain technical documentation (P&IDs, specs, procedures).
• Provide technical guidance to junior engineers and staff.
• Collaborate with vendors to select and procure automation solutions.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and operational requirements.

Skills

Automation

Robotics

Systems integration

Leadership

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

PLC programming

HMI development

SCADA systems

OPC UA

Modbus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking manufacturing company located in **Pretoria, Gauteng**, is seeking an experienced Lead Industrial Engineer to spearhead initiatives in automation and systems integration. This is a crucial hybrid role that will involve identifying opportunities for technological advancement, designing automated solutions, and overseeing their implementation to enhance production efficiency and product quality. You will play a key role in shaping the future of our client's manufacturing processes by leveraging cutting-edge technologies. This position demands a strategic thinker with strong technical expertise and leadership capabilities, capable of driving complex projects in **Pretoria**.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate, and recommend automation technologies and systems to improve manufacturing processes, increase throughput, and reduce operational costs.
• Lead the design, development, and implementation of automated production systems, including robotics, PLC systems, and integrated control solutions.
• Oversee system integration projects, ensuring seamless communication and data flow between different automated equipment and enterprise systems.
• Develop detailed project plans, manage budgets, and coordinate cross-functional teams (engineering, IT, operations) to ensure successful project delivery.
• Conduct feasibility studies and ROI analyses for proposed automation projects.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including P&IDs, system specifications, and operational procedures.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technical staff.
• Collaborate with vendors and technology partners to select and procure appropriate automation solutions.
• Ensure that all automation solutions comply with safety standards and operational requirements.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in industrial engineering, with a significant focus on automation, robotics, and systems integration in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience leading complex automation projects from conception to completion.
• Strong knowledge of PLC programming, HMI development, robotics (e.g., KUKA, FANUC), and SCADA systems.
• Expertise in systems integration principles and experience with relevant software and protocols (e.g., OPC UA, Modbus).
• Excellent project management skills, including budget and resource management.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to influence and motivate teams.
• Experience working within a hybrid model, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package, including performance bonuses and comprehensive benefits such as medical aid, retirement funding, and life insurance. You will have opportunities for extensive professional development, including advanced training in automation technologies. This role provides significant career growth prospects within a dynamic and innovative company based in **Pretoria, Gauteng**. The hybrid work model supports a flexible approach to work-life balance.