Process Automation Engineer - Remote

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

100% remote work

Paid time off

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Process Automation Engineer to join a fully remote engineering team. You will design, develop, program, and troubleshoot automated systems across production lines while collaborating with engineers worldwide.

The role emphasizes PLC/HMI/SCADA programming, electrical schematics, and remote troubleshooting, with a strong focus on efficiency and reliability in manufacturing operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 4 years hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems.
• Proficiency in PLC brands (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi) and HMI/SCADA software.
• Strong understanding of electrical hardware and control panel design.
• Experience with robotic systems integration is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated control systems for manufacturing processes.
• Program PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics and control panel layouts.
• Troubleshoot and provide remote support for automated machinery.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define automation requirements.
• Optimize systems to improve performance, reduce cycle times, and enhance quality.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Automation design

Remote troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering / Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens

Allen-Bradley

Mitsubishi

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled and innovative Process Automation Engineer to join their entirely remote engineering team. This position is central to enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and intelligence of our manufacturing operations through the strategic implementation of automation technologies. You will be responsible for designing, developing, programming, and troubleshooting automated systems across various production lines, working collaboratively with engineers and technicians worldwide. As a fully remote role, this position offers unparalleled flexibility and the opportunity to work from a location of your choice, provided you have a stable internet connection and a dedicated workspace. We foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning, encouraging our team members to push the boundaries of what's possible in manufacturing automation. This is an excellent chance to contribute to cutting-edge projects and drive significant improvements in production processes from the comfort of your home.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated control systems for manufacturing processes.
• Program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces), and SCADA systems.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics and control panel layouts.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues with automated machinery and control systems, providing remote support.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define automation requirements and integrate new technologies.
• Optimize existing automation systems to improve performance, reduce cycle times, and enhance product quality.
• Conduct root cause analysis for automation-related failures and implement corrective actions.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and recommend their adoption where beneficial.
• Develop and execute test plans for automated systems to ensure functionality and reliability.
• Provide technical documentation, including user manuals and maintenance procedures, for automated systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency in programming various PLC brands (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley, Mitsubishi) and HMI/SCADA software.
• Strong understanding of electrical hardware, instrumentation, and control panel design.
• Experience with robotic systems integration is a plus.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills, particularly in a remote support context.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively within a distributed team.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Experience with industrial networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus) is required.
• Must have a dedicated home office setup with reliable high-speed internet access.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits package, generous paid time off, and a retirement savings plan.
• Enjoy the ultimate flexibility of a 100% remote work arrangement, allowing for excellent work‑life balance.
• Access to ongoing training and professional development opportunities in the field of automation.
• Join an innovative and forward‑thinking company that values technological advancement and employee well‑being.