Principal Industrial Automation Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 2,000,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

premium health coverage

significant retirement fund

performance-based incentives

advanced training

certifications

attendance at global industry forums

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Industrial Automation Engineer to lead design, development, and implementation of advanced automation across production lifecycles in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA. You will drive efficiency, quality, and cost reductions through intelligent automation.

The role requires 10+ years in industrial automation, expertise with PLCs (Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley ControlLogix), SCADA, MES, and BI/data analytics, plus leadership capabilities in a high-volume setting.

Qualifications

• Requires a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in industrial automation with leadership focus.
• Deep knowledge of PLC platforms, SCADA, HMI, robotics, MES, and data analytics.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of advanced automation systems for complex manufacturing processes.
• Develop roadmaps for automation technology adoption aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee integration of PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and control systems.
• Conduct assessments to identify modernization opportunities in automation infrastructure.
• Manage automation projects from concept to commissioning within budget and schedule.
• Develop control strategies and algorithms to optimize throughput and consistency.
• Implement data acquisition systems for real-time monitoring and analysis.
• Ensure safety, security, and reliability standards across solutions.
• Mentor automation engineers and technicians, guiding professional development.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and IT for seamless integration.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Problem solving

Stakeholder management

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related

Tools

Siemens S7

Allen-Bradley ControlLogix

SCADA systems

HMI development

MES

IIoT

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned leader in the food and beverage processing industry, is seeking an exceptional Principal Industrial Automation Engineer to enhance their operations in the picturesque region of Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA . This senior role is tasked with spearheading the design, development, and implementation of state-of-the-art automation solutions across the entire production lifecycle. You will be at the forefront of technological innovation, driving efficiency, ensuring quality, and reducing operational costs through intelligent automation strategies. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of industrial control systems, robotics, SCADA, and data analytics within a high-volume manufacturing context. This is a crucial leadership position offering significant influence and the opportunity to shape the future of our client's manufacturing capabilities. The role demands strategic thinking, technical mastery, and a proven ability to lead complex projects to successful completion.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic design and implementation of advanced industrial automation systems and solutions for complex manufacturing processes.
• Develop and execute roadmaps for automation technology adoption, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Oversee the integration of PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and sophisticated control systems.
• Conduct in-depth technical assessments of existing automation infrastructure, identifying areas for enhancement and modernization.
• Manage automation projects from concept through to commissioning, ensuring adherence to budget, scope, and timeline.
• Develop robust control strategies and algorithms to optimize production throughput and product consistency.
• Implement and manage data acquisition systems for real-time monitoring and performance analysis.
• Ensure all automation solutions comply with the highest industry standards for safety, security, and reliability.
• Mentor and guide a team of automation engineers and technicians, fostering technical excellence and professional development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, operations, and IT, to ensure seamless system integration.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in industrial automation engineering, with a significant focus on leadership and complex system design.
• Extensive experience with various PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley ControlLogix), SCADA systems, and HMI development.
• Deep knowledge of industrial robotics, motion control, and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Proven ability to design and implement complex automation architectures.
• Strong understanding of data analytics, IIoT, and Industry 4.0 principles.
• Demonstrated success in leading large-scale automation projects in the Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA area.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Experience with project management methodologies and tools.

Benefits

Our client offers an exceptionally competitive salary package commensurate with this principal-level position, alongside a comprehensive benefits program. This includes premium health coverage, significant retirement fund contributions, and performance-based incentives. The company is committed to employee growth, providing ample opportunities for advanced training, certifications, and attendance at global industry forums. You will work within a dynamic and innovative environment, utilizing cutting-edge technologies and collaborating with some of the brightest minds in the industry. Professional autonomy and the chance to make a lasting impact on the company's technological direction are key components of this role. Enjoy a supportive work culture that values expertise and rewards contribution in the vibrant hub of Stellenbosch, Western Cape, ZA .

• premium health coverage
• significant retirement fund contributions
• performance-based incentives
• advanced training
• certifications
• attendance at global industry forums