Principal Control Systems Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary commensurate with seniority

Health and retirement benefits

Generous paid time off

Home office stipend

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Control Systems Engineer for its remote engineering division. This senior role leads the design, development, and implementation of complex industrial control systems, defines architectures, and ensures reliable automation for clients globally.

You will mentor junior engineers, collaborate with cross-functional teams, specify hardware and develop PLC/SCADA/HMI configurations, and stay ahead of industry trends to deliver scalable, future-proof solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or Computer Engineering required.
• 10+ years in control systems engineering with a focus on industrial automation.
• Expert proficiency with major PLC platforms and SCADA/HMI development.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and implementation of advanced control systems for industrial applications.
• Architect control systems ensuring scalability, reliability, and maintainability.
• Specify and select hardware including controllers, sensors, actuators, and networking equipment.
• Develop PLC logic, SCADA configurations, and HMI interfaces for automation platforms.
• Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for control projects.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers in a remote setting.

Skills

Leadership

Remote collaboration

Analytical thinking

Project management

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

ABB PLC

SCADA

HMI

Modbus

Profibus

EtherNet/IP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in industrial automation and smart manufacturing solutions, is seeking a Principal Control Systems Engineer to join their fully remote engineering division. This senior role requires extensive expertise in the design, development, and implementation of sophisticated control systems for complex industrial processes. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading challenging projects, defining system architectures, and ensuring the optimal performance and reliability of automation solutions. As a remote-first company, our client champions a collaborative and agile work environment, leveraging digital tools to connect its dispersed talent pool effectively. We are looking for a visionary engineer with a profound understanding of PLCs, SCADA systems, HMI development, and industrial networking protocols. The Principal Control Systems Engineer will not only drive technical innovation but also mentor junior engineers and contribute to the strategic direction of the company's control systems technology. This position offers the unique advantage of working from anywhere while contributing to groundbreaking advancements in industrial automation. The focus is on delivering robust, scalable, and future-proof control solutions that enhance operational efficiency and productivity for clients worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced control systems for industrial applications.


• Develop PLC logic, SCADA configurations, and HMI interfaces for various automation platforms.


• Architect control system solutions, ensuring scalability, reliability, and maintainability.


• Specify and select appropriate hardware components, including controllers, sensors, actuators, and networking equipment.


• Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation for control system projects.


• Conduct system integration, testing, and commissioning activities.


• Provide expert technical support and troubleshooting for deployed control systems.


• Mentor and guide junior control systems engineers, fostering their technical growth.


• Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in industrial automation.


• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, as well as project managers and clients.


• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, user manuals, and test reports.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a related field.


• 10+ years of progressive experience in control systems engineering, with a significant focus on industrial automation.


• Expert proficiency with major PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell Automation, ABB) and programming languages (e.g., Ladder Logic, Structured Text).


• Deep understanding of SCADA systems, HMI design principles, and industrial networking protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, EtherNet/IP).


• Experience with motion control, robotics, and vision systems is highly desirable.


• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex automation challenges.


• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, crucial for remote team collaboration.


• Proven ability to manage complex projects and work independently in a remote environment.


• Experience with simulation tools and advanced control strategies (e.g., PID tuning, model predictive control) is a plus.


• Commitment to safety standards and best practices in industrial environments.

Benefits

• Exceptional salary and bonus structure reflecting the senior level of the role.


• Comprehensive health, wellness, and retirement benefits.


• Generous paid time off and flexible working schedule.


• Home office stipend and support for remote work infrastructure.


• Significant opportunities for professional development, training, and advancement.


• The chance to work on challenging, high-impact projects with a leading global company.