Principal Industrial Engineer - Process Automation

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

On-site facilities

Relocation assistance

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Industrial Engineer specializing in process automation for on-site Rustenburg operations in the mining/heavy industry. You will drive advanced automation strategies, integrating robotics, AI, and control systems to boost efficiency and safety.

With 10+ years in industrial engineering, you will mentor junior engineers, set technical direction, and lead projects from concept to completion, delivering measurable productivity gains and cost-effectiveness.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 10+ years in industrial engineering with process automation and control systems.
• Proven track record leading complex automation projects.
• Expert in PLC programming, robotics, HMI, and industrial networks.
• Experience with simulation software for process/automation design.
• Strong analytical, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
• Willingness to work full-time on-site in Rustenburg.
• Experience in mining or heavy manufacturing preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of automated processes and systems.
• Develop specifications for automation equipment including PLCs and SCADA.
• Perform feasibility studies and risk assessments for automation projects.
• Collaborate with engineers, operations, and vendors to deliver projects.
• Oversee integration of new automation technologies into operations.
• Develop testing and validation procedures for automated systems.
• Mentor junior engineers and set technical direction.
• Stay current with emerging automation tech and best practices.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, resources for automation initiatives.

Skills

Process automation

Robotics

PLC programming

HMI development

Industrial networks

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Analytical thinking

Education

Master's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

SCADA systems

Simulation software

PLC programming tools

Robotics hardware

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the mining and heavy industry sector, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Industrial Engineer specializing in process automation. This is a critical, on-site role based in Rustenburg , where you will lead the design and implementation of advanced automation strategies to enhance operational efficiency and safety. You will be at the forefront of technological innovation, driving the integration of robotics, AI, and sophisticated control systems into our clients' industrial processes. This position requires deep technical expertise, strong leadership capabilities, and a forward-thinking approach to industrial engineering challenges. Your work will directly impact productivity and cost-effectiveness in one of South Africa's most vital economic regions. As a Principal Engineer, you will mentor junior team members and set the technical direction for automation initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and implementation of automated industrial processes and systems.
• Develop detailed technical specifications for automation equipment, including robotics, PLCs, and SCADA systems.
• Conduct feasibility studies and risk assessments for proposed automation projects.
• Collaborate with engineering teams, operations managers, and external vendors to ensure successful project delivery.
• Oversee the integration of new automation technologies into existing manufacturing and operational environments.
• Develop and implement robust testing and validation procedures for automated systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to process automation.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technical staff.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and industry best practices.
• Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation for automation initiatives.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• 10+ years of extensive experience in industrial engineering, with a specialization in process automation and control systems.
• Proven track record of successfully leading complex automation projects from initiation to completion.
• In-depth knowledge of PLC programming, robotics, HMI development, and industrial networks.
• Experience with simulation software for process and automation design.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a demanding, fast-paced industrial environment.
• Must be willing to work full-time on-site in Rustenburg .
• Experience within the mining or heavy manufacturing sectors is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, executive-level benefits package, and significant opportunities for career advancement.
• You will be part of a pioneering team driving technological innovation in a key industry.
• Enjoy access to state-of-the‑art facilities and resources.
• Our client provides robust health and retirement benefits, along with performance‑based bonuses.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
• This is a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact on large-scale industrial operations in Rustenburg .

Our client is dedicated to fostering a culture of safety, excellence, and continuous learning.