Remote Automation and Controls Engineer

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Performance-based bonus

Health benefits

Retirement savings plan

Training resources

Home office stipend

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Remote Automation and Controls Engineer to design, implement, and support advanced automation systems from anywhere in South Africa. The role requires deep PLC/HMI/SCADA expertise, strong remote collaboration, and a proactive problem-solving mindset.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree in a related field and 5+ years’ experience in automation. You will contribute to safe, efficient, and innovative manufacturing processes while working independently in a remote

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years in automation and control systems engineering.
• Proven PLC/SCADA proficiency and industrial networks knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission automated control systems using PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA platforms.
• Develop and implement complex control logic for manufacturing processes.
• Specify and integrate industrial hardware (sensors, actuators, robotics, vision).
• Collaborate remotely with cross-functional teams to define automation requirements and solutions.
• Provide remote technical support and debugging for existing systems.
• Maintain system documentation (P&IDs, diagrams, logic, manuals).
• Stay current with automation and IIoT trends; conduct FATs/SATs when needed.
• Optimize automation for performance, reliability, and cost.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Industrial networks

Remote troubleshooting

Analytical skills

Communication

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Engineering

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

WinCC

Ignition

FactoryTalk View

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced manufacturing technologies, is seeking a highly skilled Remote Automation and Controls Engineer. This is a completely remote position, allowing you to contribute to cutting-edge projects from anywhere in South Africa. You will be responsible for the design, development, implementation, and support of sophisticated automation and control systems that drive efficiency and innovation in manufacturing processes. This role requires a deep understanding of industrial control hardware and software, combined with excellent remote collaboration and problem-solving skills. If you are passionate about automation and thrive in an independent, results-oriented environment, this is the ideal opportunity for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission automated control systems using PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA platforms.
• Develop and implement complex control logic and algorithms for manufacturing processes.
• Specify and integrate industrial hardware, including sensors, actuators, robotics, and vision systems.
• Collaborate remotely with cross-functional teams (engineering, operations, IT) to define automation requirements and solutions.
• Provide remote technical support and troubleshooting for existing automation systems.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive system documentation, including P&IDs, electrical schematics, logic diagrams, and user manuals.
• Stay current with industry advancements in automation, robotics, and digital manufacturing technologies.
• Conduct virtual factory acceptance tests (FATs) and site acceptance tests (SATs) when necessary.
• Optimize existing automation systems for improved performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure all designs and implementations adhere to safety standards and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in automation and control systems engineering.
• Proven expertise in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000) and HMI/SCADA development (e.g., WinCC, Ignition, FactoryTalk View).
• Strong knowledge of industrial networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP/IP).
• Experience with robotics integration and motion control systems is highly desirable.
• Excellent remote troubleshooting capabilities and proficiency with remote access tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for effective virtual teamwork.
• Ability to manage time effectively and work independently in a remote setting.
• Understanding of Industry 4.0 concepts and IIoT is a plus.

Benefits

• This fully remote role offers a highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits are provided, along with a retirement savings plan.
• Our client invests in employee growth through extensive online training resources and opportunities for skill development.
• You will have the flexibility to work from home, with a stipend provided for office setup.
• This role offers significant career advancement potential within a leading global technology company.
• You will work on exciting, challenging projects that are at the forefront of manufacturing innovation, contributing to global industrial progress from your chosen location.