Principal Industrial Automation Engineer

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Significant annual bonus

Stock option plan

Flexible remote work with site visits

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA seeks a Principal Industrial Automation Engineer to lead advanced automation initiatives across multiple facilities. You will design, implement, and maintain PLC/SCADA/HMI systems and robotics, guiding cross-functional teams and driving safety, quality, and efficiency improvements.

The role requires a Master’s in a related field and 12+ years of experience, with strong leadership and vendor evaluation skills.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical/Industrial Engineering or Mechatronics with 12+ years in automation.
• Proven ability to design and implement PLC/SCADA/HMI and robotics systems.
• Experience leading multi-disciplinary automation projects and teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and implementation of advanced automation systems.
• Develop automation strategies aligned with long-term objectives.
• Evaluate technologies, vendors, and solutions for projects.
• Oversee installation, commissioning, and validation of equipment.
• Provide technical leadership to automation teams and stakeholders.
• Create robust testing and commissioning plans for projects.
• Troubleshoot issues to minimise downtime and optimize performance.
• Stay updated on emerging automation technologies and trends.
• Document design specs, programming code, and manuals.
• Ensure adherence to safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Project management

Independent work

Education

Master's degree in Electrical/Industrial Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

SCADA

HMI

ABB robotics

KUKA robotics

Fanuc robotics

Ethernet/IP

Profinet

Industrial cybersecurity

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a visionary Principal Industrial Automation Engineer to drive cutting-edge automation strategies from our **Centurion, Gauteng, ZA** location. This senior role involves designing, implementing, and maintaining complex automated systems across multiple manufacturing facilities. You will be at the forefront of technological innovation, exploring and integrating new automation solutions, robotics, and intelligent control systems. The Principal Industrial Automation Engineer will play a key role in enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and product quality through advanced automation. This position requires a deep technical expertise, strategic foresight, and the ability to lead complex, multi-disciplinary projects. Join us in shaping the future of industrial automation in **Centurion, Gauteng, ZA**.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced industrial automation systems, including PLC, SCADA, HMI, and robotics.
• Develop automation strategies aligned with the company's long-term operational and business objectives.
• Evaluate and select appropriate automation technologies, vendors, and solutions.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and validation of new automated equipment and systems.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to automation engineering teams and project stakeholders.
• Develop and implement robust testing and commissioning plans for automation projects.
• Troubleshoot complex automation issues, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal system performance.
• Stay abreast of emerging automation technologies and industry trends, recommending their adoption where appropriate.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for automation systems, including design specifications, programming code, and operational manuals.
• Ensure automation systems adhere to all relevant safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in industrial automation engineering, with a significant focus on system design and implementation.
• Proven expertise in programming and configuring various PLC brands (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell), SCADA systems, and HMI platforms.
• Extensive experience with industrial robotics (e.g., ABB, KUKA, Fanuc) and their integration into automated lines.
• Strong understanding of industrial networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet) and cybersecurity principles for industrial control systems.
• Demonstrated experience in leading complex automation projects from concept to completion.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with simulation tools for automation design and validation is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a significant annual bonus, and an attractive stock option plan.
• Comprehensive benefits include premium health, dental, and vision insurance, a substantial retirement fund contribution, and generous vacation leave.
• Opportunities for global travel to cutting-edge facilities and participation in international technology conferences are available.
• Professional development is highly valued, with extensive training programs and support for advanced certifications.
• This role is primarily remote, with occasional site visits required to **Centurion, Gauteng, ZA** and other facilities.