Lead Mine Automation Engineer

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a global mining technology leader to hire a Lead Mine Automation Engineer. This fully remote role drives development, deployment, and optimization of automation and autonomous systems across mining operations worldwide.

You will lead control system design, PLC/SCADA, robotics integration, and data analytics, mentor engineers, and shape the company’s digital transformation. A strong background in automation, robotics, IoT, and safety-critical systems is essential.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in automation-focused engineering or related field.
• 8+ years in automation engineering with mining/industrial exposure.
• Experience with control-system design, PLC programming, SCADA, and HMI.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of mine automation and autonomous systems.
• Develop control architectures, PLC/SCADA, and sensor integration.
• Oversee robotics, AI, and machine learning in mining processes.
• Collaborate with manufacturers to specify and test components.
• Create remote operation and monitoring strategies for automated equipment.
• Ensure safety, reliability, and efficiency with rigorous validation.
• Provide technical leadership to automation engineers and technicians.
• Document standards and best practices for mine automation.
• Conduct root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Stay updated on emerging automation technologies relevant to mining.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for initiatives.
• Coordinate with site operations for adoption and training.
• Contribute to digital transformation strategy with new automation opportunities.

Skills

Control systems

Robotics

IoT

Data analytics

Project management

Leadership

Remote leadership

Education

Master's / PhD in engineering

Tools

Rockwell PLC

Siemens PLC

SCADA

HMI

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader pioneering advancements in mining technology, is actively seeking an innovative Lead Mine Automation Engineer to join their fully remote, forward-thinking team. This pivotal role will drive the development, implementation, and optimization of automation and autonomous systems within mining operations worldwide. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in control systems engineering, robotics, IoT, and data analytics as applied to the mining environment. You will be responsible for conceptualizing and deploying cutting-edge automation solutions, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring the safe and efficient integration of new technologies. This is an unparalleled opportunity for a visionary engineer to shape the future of mining through advanced automation, working remotely with a leading organization dedicated to innovation and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of mine automation and autonomous systems (e.g., autonomous haulage, drilling, loading).
• Develop and manage control system architectures, PLCs, SCADA systems, and sensor integration for mining equipment.
• Oversee the integration of robotics, AI, and machine learning solutions into mining processes.
• Collaborate with equipment manufacturers and technology providers to specify and test automation components.
• Develop and implement remote operation and monitoring strategies for automated mining equipment.
• Ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of all automated systems through rigorous testing and validation.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of automation engineers and technicians.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, standards, and best practices for mine automation.
• Conduct root cause analysis for automation-related issues and implement corrective actions.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies in automation, IoT, AI, and robotics relevant to the mining industry.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for automation initiatives.
• Collaborate with site operations and engineering teams to ensure seamless technology adoption and training.
• Contribute to the company's digital transformation strategy by identifying new automation opportunities.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related field with a focus on automation.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in automation engineering, with significant exposure to industrial or heavy equipment automation, preferably in mining.
• Proven experience with control system design, PLC programming (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens), SCADA development, and HMI design.
• Strong knowledge of robotics, sensor technologies, IoT platforms, and data analytics.
• Experience with simulation software and digital twin technologies.
• Demonstrated project management skills with a track record of successful technology implementation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, capable of managing remote teams and fostering collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple complex projects concurrently in a remote setting.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity principles as applied to industrial control systems is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement savings, and performance-based bonuses, all tailored for remote employees. We provide exceptional opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career advancement within a pioneering organization at the forefront of mining technology. This role is fully remote, offering outstanding flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere. Employees receive generous annual leave and paid time off, ensuring a superb work-life balance. Our client invests heavily in cutting-edge digital tools, simulation platforms, and collaborative technologies to empower remote teams. Join a dynamic and innovative group dedicated to transforming the mining industry through automation and intelligent systems.