Principal Industrial Engineer - Automation & Robotics

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 2,000,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare benefits

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Industrial Engineer to lead automation and robotics initiatives in Rustenburg, North West, ZA. The role combines on-site assessments with off-site planning to drive safety, productivity, and efficiency across mining and processing facilities.

You will evaluate processes, develop detailed specs, oversee project delivery, and mentor engineering teams while ensuring compliance with standards. A challenging, high-impact senior position in a dynamic industry.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in industrial engineering with a focus on automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing systems.
• Proven experience managing complex, multi-disciplinary automation projects from conception to completion.
• Deep understanding of industrial robots (FANUC, KUKA, ABB), PLC programming, SCADA, and industrial automation platforms.
• Expertise in control systems engineering, sensor tech, and machine vision systems.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration abilities.
• Experience in risk assessment and management for automated systems.
• Willingness to travel to Rustenburg, North West, ZA for hybrid work.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation and robotics strategy across the organization.
• Evaluate processes and identify opportunities for automation to improve efficiency, safety, and throughput.
• Develop detailed specifications for automated systems and robotics applications.
• Oversee design, procurement, installation, and commissioning of automation projects.
• Collaborate with vendors and engineering teams to ensure integration and performance.
• Develop testing and validation procedures for new automated solutions.
• Provide technical leadership to engineering teams involved in automation projects.
• Analyze performance data to identify further optimization opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Stay current with advancements in automation and robotics in Rustenburg area.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Robotics

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

PhD or MSc in Industrial/Robotics/Eng

Tools

FANUC

KUKA

ABB

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the heavy industry sector based in Rustenburg, North West, ZA, is looking for an exceptional Principal Industrial Engineer to lead their automation and robotics initiatives. This senior role demands extensive expertise in designing, implementing, and managing automated systems within complex industrial environments. The successful candidate will be responsible for evaluating automation opportunities, developing conceptual designs, overseeing implementation projects, and ensuring the successful integration of robotics and automated machinery into existing operations. This position is key to enhancing productivity, safety, and efficiency in our client's mining and processing facilities. The role involves a hybrid work model, balancing on-site technical assessments with off-site strategic planning and analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic planning and implementation of automation and robotics solutions across the organization.
• Evaluate existing processes and identify opportunities for automation to improve efficiency, safety, and throughput.
• Develop detailed technical specifications and requirements for automated systems and robotic applications.
• Oversee the design, procurement, installation, and commissioning of automation and robotics projects.
• Collaborate with vendors, engineers, and operational teams to ensure successful integration and performance of automated systems.
• Develop and implement robust testing and validation procedures for new automated solutions.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams involved in automation projects.
• Analyze performance data from automated systems to identify opportunities for further optimization.
• Ensure all automation and robotics implementations comply with safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in automation, robotics, and industrial control systems in the Rustenburg area.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in industrial engineering, with a specialized focus on automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing systems.
• Proven experience in managing complex, multi-disciplinary automation projects from conception to completion.
• Deep understanding of industrial robots (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB), PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industrial automation platforms.
• Expertise in control systems engineering, sensor technology, and machine vision systems.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and cross-functional team collaboration skills.
• Experience in risk assessment and management for automated systems.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid capacity, including travel to Rustenburg, North West, ZA.

Benefits

• Our client offers an industry-leading compensation package, including a substantial base salary, performance bonuses, comprehensive healthcare benefits, and a generous retirement plan.
• Opportunities for continued professional development, international conferences, and leadership training are provided.
• Employees will also receive ample paid time off and a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and technical excellence in Rustenburg, North West, ZA.