Process Engineer - Automation Specialist

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package with performance-based

Private healthcare coverage

Provident fund

Continuous learning and automation培训

Access to advanced technologies and a

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Process Engineer with automation specialization to design, implement, and optimize automated manufacturing systems. You will work with state-of-the-art equipment and cross-functional teams across production, maintenance, and R&D to drive efficiency, quality, and safety.

The role requires a Bachelor's in engineering and 6+ years in process automation, strong PLC/SCADA/HMI experience, robotics, CAD, and a track record of tackling complex

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process engineering with a focus on industrial automation.
• Experience with PLC programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley), SCADA, and HMI development.
• Experience with industrial robotics programming and integration.
• Proficiency in CAD software for automation layouts.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills related to automation control and processes.
• Excellent project management and multitasking abilities.
• Effective communication with diverse teams in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Experience in high-volume manufacturing and familiarity with lean Six Sigma.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated manufacturing processes and systems.
• Troubleshoot and maintain automated machinery and control systems (PLCs, SCADA, robotics).
• Optimize existing processes for efficiency, throughput, and cost with automation.
• Develop and execute validation protocols for automated systems.
• Collaborate with external vendors and system integrators for automation projects.
• Train production and maintenance staff on operation and upkeep of automated equipment.
• Ensure automation projects comply with safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Analyze production data to identify trends and opportunities for automation-driven improvements.
• Lead or participate in cross-functional teams for new product introductions and process improvements.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for automated systems, including P&IDs and control logic.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics engineering

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

SCADA

HMI

CAD

Robotics programming

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced manufacturing based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a highly skilled Process Engineer with a specialization in Automation. This pivotal role focuses on designing, implementing, and optimizing automated systems and processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and safety across our production facilities. You will be at the forefront of technological innovation, working with state-of-the-art equipment and software to drive operational excellence. The ideal candidate possesses a strong analytical mind, a passion for automation technologies, and a proven ability to troubleshoot complex engineering challenges. This is a fantastic opportunity for a forward-thinking engineer to make a significant impact on our manufacturing operations in Durban and contribute to our sustained growth and competitive edge. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including production, maintenance, and R&D, to ensure seamless integration of automated solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated manufacturing processes and systems.


• Troubleshoot and maintain automated machinery and control systems (PLCs, SCADA, robotics).


• Optimize existing processes for improved efficiency, throughput, and cost-effectiveness through automation.


• Develop and execute validation protocols for new and modified automated systems.


• Collaborate with external vendors and system integrators for automation projects.


• Train production and maintenance staff on the operation and upkeep of automated equipment.


• Ensure all automation projects comply with safety standards and regulatory requirements.


• Analyze production data to identify trends and opportunities for automation-driven improvements.


• Lead or participate in cross-functional teams for new product introductions and process improvements.


• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for automated systems, including P&IDs and control logic.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.


• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process engineering, with a strong focus on industrial automation.


• In-depth knowledge of PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), SCADA systems, and HMI development.


• Experience with industrial robotics programming and integration.


• Proficiency in CAD software for designing automation layouts and components.


• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills related to automation control and processes.


• Excellent project management skills and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.


• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for working with diverse teams and stakeholders in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal .


• Experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment is highly desirable.


• Understanding of lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package, commensurate with experience, plus performance-based bonuses.


• Comprehensive private healthcare coverage and a generous provident fund are included.


• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, including specialized automation training.


• Our client invests in its employees by providing access to advanced technologies and a collaborative engineering culture in Durban .


• Potential for career advancement into senior engineering and management roles.


• This position also includes support for attending key industry conferences and workshops.


• You will work in a dynamic and innovative manufacturing environment.