Lead Industrial Engineer - Automation & Systems Integration

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level package

Bonus opportunities

Health plan

Equity options

Training and conferences

Generous retirement contributions

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng, is seeking a visionary Lead Industrial Engineer to spearhead automation and systems integration initiatives. This senior role leads a team of engineers to design and implement automated systems that improve production efficiency, quality, and safety.

You will oversee robotics, PLC/SCADA integration, and lean manufacturing, collaborating with R&D, IT, and manufacturing to deliver scalable solutions on-site with hybrid work.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in industrial engineering with leadership in automation.
• Must have proven robotics, PLC, SCADA, and lean manufacturing experience.
• Experience in project management and budgeting is required.
• Strong communication and team leadership skills.
• Hybrid work model with on-site Centurion engagement.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and implementation of automated manufacturing systems.
• Oversee integration of robotics, PLCs, SCADA, and other automation technologies into lines.
• Develop specifications, project plans, and budgets for automation projects.
• Mentor engineers, automation specialists, and technicians.
• Conduct feasibility studies and ROI analyses for automation investments.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and IT for seamless integration.
• Develop testing, commissioning, and validation procedures for new systems.
• Drive continuous improvement in automation efficiency, reliability, and safety.
• Stay updated with Industry 4.0 advancements.

Skills

Robotics

PLC programming

SCADA

Lean manufacturing

Leadership

Project management

HMI development

Data analysis

Simulation software

CAD tools

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

FlexSim

MATLAB

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding technology and manufacturing solutions provider in Centurion, Gauteng , is looking for a visionary Lead Industrial Engineer to spearhead their automation and systems integration initiatives. This senior position demands a strategic thinker capable of designing and implementing cutting-edge automated systems to enhance production efficiency, quality, and safety. You will lead a team of engineers and technicians, overseeing projects from the initial feasibility studies and design phases through to commissioning and ongoing optimization. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in robotics, PLC programming, SCADA systems, and lean manufacturing principles, coupled with strong leadership and project management skills. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of manufacturing processes within a progressive organization. You will be at the forefront of technological adoption, driving significant improvements in operational performance. The role requires a blend of on-site presence for hands-on oversight and remote collaboration, fitting a hybrid work structure.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of automated manufacturing systems and solutions.
• Oversee the integration of robotics, PLCs, SCADA, and other automation technologies into existing production lines.
• Develop technical specifications, project plans, and budgets for automation projects.
• Manage and mentor a team of industrial engineers, automation specialists, and technicians.
• Conduct feasibility studies and ROI analyses for proposed automation investments.
• Collaborate closely with R&D, manufacturing, and IT departments to ensure seamless system integration and functionality.
• Develop and implement robust testing, commissioning, and validation procedures for new automated systems.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on enhancing automation efficiency, reliability, and safety.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in automation technology, robotics, and industry 4.0 principles.
• Ensure all automation projects comply with relevant industry standards and safety regulations.

Requirements

• Master's or Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in industrial engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role focused on automation and systems integration.
• Extensive knowledge of robotics, PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), SCADA systems, and HMI development.
• Proven experience with project management methodologies and tools.
• Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and their application in automated environments.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in simulation software (e.g., FlexSim, MATLAB) and CAD tools.
• Experience with data analysis and performance monitoring of automated systems.
• Ability to develop and execute complex project plans effectively.
• Must be comfortable working in a hybrid model with significant on-site engagement in Centurion, Gauteng .

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive executive-level salary, complemented by performance-based bonuses and potential equity options. A comprehensive executive health plan, generous retirement contributions, and substantial annual leave are standard. Opportunities for advanced training, certifications, and attendance at international conferences are provided. The company fosters an innovative and collaborative culture, valuing leadership and technical expertise. Employees are empowered to drive change and shape the future of automation. This role offers significant career growth potential within a leading organization in Centurion, Gauteng .