Lead Mining Automation Engineer

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Advanced training

Collaborative environment

Transformative projects

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Mining Automation Engineer in Mahikeng, North West. You will drive automation projects across mining operations, including autonomous haulage, remote monitoring and process automation, delivering safety and productivity gains.

Lead a multidisciplinary team, define system architectures, evaluate technologies, and ensure safe, compliant operations while partnering with IT and operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree with automation focus.
• 8+ years in automation engineering; 4+ years in mining or heavy industry.
• PM experience in automation initiatives.
• In-depth control systems, PLCs, SCADA, robotics knowledge.
• Experience with autonomous vehicle tech and sensors (LiDAR, GPS).
• Strong leadership, problem-solving and analytical skills.
• ECSA Pr.Eng registration advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development and deployment of mining automation projects.
• Develop and manage automation architecture and integration strategies.
• Collaborate with vendors to evaluate and select technologies.
• Oversee testing, commissioning and validation of automation systems.
• Mentor automation engineers and technicians.
• Ensure safety and regulatory compliance in operations.
• Prepare project plans and technical documentation.

Skills

Automation engineering leadership

Project management

PLC/SCADA systems

Robotics and automation

Autonomous vehicle tech

Team mentorship

Systems integration

Strong communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics with automation

Tools

PLC/SCADA

Industrial networks

Autonomous vehicle sensors

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive company at the forefront of technological adoption in the mining sector , is actively seeking a Lead Mining Automation Engineer. This role, based in Mahikeng, North West , is pivotal in driving the implementation and optimization of automation systems across mining operations. You will lead projects focused on autonomous haulage, remote control operations, and process automation, enhancing safety, efficiency, and productivity. The successful candidate will work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including IT, operations, and engineering, to integrate cutting-edge automation solutions. This is an exciting opportunity to pioneer the future of mining technology within a company committed to innovation and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of mining automation projects, including autonomous vehicles, robotic systems, and remote monitoring solutions.
• Develop and manage automation system architecture and integration strategies.
• Collaborate with vendors and technology partners to evaluate and select appropriate automation technologies.
• Oversee the testing, commissioning, and validation of automation systems.
• Develop strategies for the ongoing maintenance, support, and optimization of automation systems.
• Ensure automation systems meet stringent safety and operational requirements.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of automation engineers and technicians.
• Work closely with operational teams to ensure smooth adoption and effective utilization of automated systems.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in mining automation, AI, IoT, and related technologies.
• Prepare project plans, reports, and technical documentation.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field with a strong focus on automation.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in automation engineering, with at least 4 years specifically focused on the mining industry or heavy industrial automation.
• Proven experience in project management for automation initiatives.
• In-depth knowledge of control systems, PLCs, SCADA, robotics, and industrial networks.
• Experience with autonomous vehicle technology and related sensors (e.g., LiDAR, cameras, GPS).
• Strong understanding of mine operations and the application of automation within this context.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with diverse teams.
• Professional registration with ECSA (Pr.Eng) or similar is advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package and performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund options.
• Opportunities for advanced training and professional development in cutting-edge technologies.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between home and office.
• Involvement in transformative projects that are shaping the future of mining.
• A collaborative and innovative work environment in Mahikeng, North West .