Principal Industrial Engineer - Automation & Robotics

Placements24; Bellville; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Medical insurance

Retirement contributions

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a Centurion-based manufacturing conglomerate in finding a Principal Industrial Engineer to lead automation and robotics implementations. The role combines strategic planning with on-site execution in Centurion, Gauteng, and offers hybrid work flexibility.

The candidate should hold a Ph.D. or Master's in Industrial/Electrical/Mechanical Engineering with at least 10 years of experience in automation, robotics, and smart factory technologies.

Qualifications

• Requires Ph.D. or Master's in Industrial, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering or closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years in industrial engineering with focus on automation, robotics and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Proven track record leading large-scale automation projects from concept to completion.
• Extensive knowledge of industrial robotics (FANUC, KUKA, ABB), PLCs, SCADA, and IoT in manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead the strategic roadmap for automation and robotics across facilities.
• Design, specify, and commission robotic work cells and AGVs.
• Evaluate new automation tech and ROI for operations.
• Collaborate with internal teams, vendors, and integrators to deliver complex projects.
• Oversee implementation, validation, and optimization of automated systems with existing infra.
• Develop safety protocols for automated environments and mentor junior engineers.
• Provide technical leadership and drive continuous improvement via data analysis.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Industry 4.0

Education

Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering

Master's in Industrial/Electrical/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

FANUC robotics

KUKA robotics

ABB robotics

PLC programming

SCADA systems

IoT in manufacturing

RoboDK

Process Simulate

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive manufacturing conglomerate based in Centurion, Gauteng , is seeking to appoint a highly experienced Principal Industrial Engineer to lead their advanced automation and robotics initiatives. This senior position is critical for driving the digital transformation of our manufacturing operations. You will be responsible for the strategic planning, design, and implementation of automated systems, robotic cells, and smart factory solutions to enhance productivity, improve safety, and ensure superior product quality. The role requires a visionary leader with deep technical expertise and a passion for cutting-edge technologies. This hybrid position allows for strategic planning and design work remotely, with crucial on-site implementation, testing, and collaboration in Centurion, Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the strategic roadmap for automation and robotics integration across all manufacturing facilities.
• Lead the design, specification, and commissioning of robotic work cells, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and other advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Evaluate new automation technologies and assess their potential application and ROI for our operations.
• Collaborate with internal engineering teams, external vendors, and system integrators to deliver complex automation projects.
• Oversee the implementation, validation, and optimization of automated systems, ensuring seamless integration with existing infrastructure.
• Develop robust safety protocols and procedures for automated and robotic environments.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technical staff.
• Analyze performance data from automated systems to identify opportunities for continuous improvement and predictive maintenance.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in industrial engineering, with a significant focus on automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Proven track record of successfully leading and implementing large-scale automation projects from concept to completion.
• Extensive knowledge of industrial robotics (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB), PLC programming, SCADA systems, and IoT in manufacturing.
• Experience with simulation software for robotics and automation (e.g., RoboDK, Process Simulate).
• Strong understanding of Industry 4.0 principles and smart factory concepts.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and inter-personal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote strategic work with on-site execution in Centurion, Gauteng .

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package, including significant performance bonuses and long-term incentive plans.
• A comprehensive benefits program encompasses top-tier medical insurance, substantial retirement contributions, and generous paid time off.
• Continuous learning and professional development are actively encouraged through advanced training programs, certifications, and attendance at leading industry conferences.
• This role offers the unique opportunity to shape the future of manufacturing technology within a well-established and innovative company in Centurion, Gauteng .