Mine Automation Specialist - Remote Support

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Remote; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Travel opportunities

Training and development

Company vehicle and accommodation

Bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mine Automation Specialist for a leading mining technology client. The role focuses on implementing, integrating, and supporting automated systems in underground and surface operations at Bloemfontein sites.

You will collaborate with site personnel, engineering teams, and technology providers to ensure reliable autonomous haulage, drilling rigs, and other mechanized equipment. The position requires on-site presence, extensive fieldwork, and adherence to safety standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics with automation focus.
• 5+ years in industrial automation or robotics, mining or heavy industry.
• Experience with PLC, SCADA, and HMI development.
• Familiarity with autonomous vehicle tech and sensor integration.
• Strong networking & IT infra knowledge for industrial environments.
• Excellent diagnostic and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork; willing to travel to mine sites (Bloemfontein).

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and commission mine automation systems (hardware & software).
• Provide on-site technical support and troubleshooting for automated mining equipment.
• Develop and maintain documentation for automation systems and procedures.
• Train site personnel on operation and basic maintenance of automated equipment.
• Monitor system performance and analyze data to identify improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate new automation technologies.
• Ensure safety protocols and operational procedures for automation systems.
• Participate in risk assessments and mitigation for automation hazards.
• Liaise with equipment manufacturers and vendors for technical support and updates.
• Contribute to strategic planning and roadmaps for mine automation initiatives.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA systems

HMI development

Industrial automation

Robotics

Data acquisition

Networking protocols

Diagnostic & troubleshooting

Communication & teamwork

Education

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

Tools

SCADA software

HMI development tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in mining technology, is seeking a highly skilled Mine Automation Specialist to join their team. This role is crucial for the implementation, integration, and ongoing support of automated and semi-automated systems in underground and surface mining operations. You will work directly with site personnel, engineering teams, and technology providers to ensure the seamless operation of autonomous haulage systems, drilling rigs, and other mechanized equipment. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of control systems, robotics, data acquisition, and network infrastructure within a mining context. While this role requires a significant on-site presence at our various mining locations in **Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA**, and surrounding operational areas, it offers the opportunity to contribute to the cutting edge of mining technology and innovation. You will be instrumental in improving safety, efficiency, and productivity through the adoption of advanced automation solutions. This is a demanding but rewarding role for a professional passionate about the future of mining.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and commission mine automation systems, including hardware and software components.
• Provide on-site technical support and troubleshooting for automated mining equipment and systems.
• Develop and maintain documentation for automation systems, including operational procedures and maintenance manuals.
• Train site personnel on the operation and basic maintenance of automated equipment.
• Monitor system performance and analyze operational data to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate new automation technologies into existing mine operations.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and operational procedures related to automation systems.
• Participate in risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for automation-related hazards.
• Liaise with equipment manufacturers and software vendors for technical support and updates.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and implementation roadmap for mine automation initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field with a focus on automation or robotics.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in industrial automation, robotics, or control systems, with specific experience in the mining or heavy industry sector.
• Proven experience with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and HMI development.
• Familiarity with autonomous vehicle technologies and sensor integration.
• Strong understanding of networking protocols and IT infrastructure relevant to industrial environments.
• Excellent diagnostic and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
• Willingness to travel frequently to mine sites and work on-location in **Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA**, and other operational areas.
• Ability to work under pressure and in challenging field conditions.
• Commitment to safety and operational excellence.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with regular reviews.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for extensive travel to operational sites.
• Professional development programs and training on new technologies.
• Exposure to state-of-the-art automation systems in the mining industry.
• Company-provided vehicle and accommodation during site visits.
• Performance-based bonuses and recognition programs.
• Opportunity to shape the future of mining automation.
• Annual leave and company holidays.
• Collaborative team environment with experienced professionals.