Manufacturing Engineer - Process Automation

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Training opportunities

Generous leave

Modern facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer specializing in process automation in East London. You will design, implement, and optimize automated systems across the manufacturing floor to boost productivity, quality, and safety.

A strong mechanical or electrical engineering background and hands-on automation experience are required. You will program PLCs, develop HMIs, integrate robotics, and collaborate with production, quality, and maintenance teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in manufacturing engineering focusing on process automation.
• Proven PLC programming experience (Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI development.
• Hands-on experience with industrial robots and their integration.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated manufacturing processes and systems.
• Program, troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and robotics controllers.
• Integrate new automated machinery with existing systems.
• Test, commission, and validate automation systems for reliability.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics, control logic, and manuals.
• Identify automation opportunities to improve efficiency and quality.
• Collaborate with production, quality, and maintenance teams on projects.
• Troubleshoot automation equipment and processes.

Skills

PLC programming

Robotics integration

HMI development

Problem-solving

Teamwork & collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical or Mechatronics Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

FANUC robotics

ABB robotics

KUKA robotics

CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer of industrial components in East London , is seeking a skilled Manufacturing Engineer with a specialization in process automation. This role is crucial for designing, implementing, and optimizing automated systems within the manufacturing environment to enhance productivity, quality, and safety. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in mechanical or electrical engineering, with hands‑on experience in PLC programming, robotics integration, and automated production machinery. You will play a key role in modernizing our manufacturing capabilities and driving operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated manufacturing processes and systems.
• Program and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and robotics controllers for various automation equipment.
• Integrate new automated machinery and production lines with existing systems.
• Perform system testing, commissioning, and validation to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including electrical schematics, control logic, and operating manuals.
• Identify opportunities for automation to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality, and maintenance, on automation projects.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to automated equipment and processes.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in automation technology and manufacturing best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with a strong focus on process automation.
• Proven experience in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI development.
• Hands‑on experience with industrial robots (e.g., FANUC, ABB, KUKA) and their integration.
• Strong understanding of electrical systems, control panels, and safety circuits in an industrial context.
• Knowledge of sensors, vision systems, and industrial networking.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities and a meticulous attention to detail.
• Good communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively.
• Experience with CAD software for mechanical design is beneficial.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to East London .

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for training in specialized automation technologies.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• A challenging and innovative work environment.
• Collaborative team atmosphere with experienced professionals.
• Access to modern manufacturing facilities and equipment.
• Career growth opportunities within a reputable company.