Remote Automation Specialist - Manufacturing

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Competitive salary

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Automation Specialist for a global manufacturing client. This fully remote role lets you design, implement, and maintain automation solutions to boost production efficiency and reduce manual labor.

You will collaborate with on-site teams as needed while working from anywhere. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics, 6+ years in industrial automation, strong PLC/HMI/SCADA proficiency, robotics experience, and solid knowledge of

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics or related field.
• 6+ years of experience in industrial automation in manufacturing.
• Proficiency with Siemens or Rockwell PLCs, HMI and SCADA.
• Experience with robotics programming and integration.
• Knowledge of industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Profibus).
• Strong problem-solving and remote collaboration skills.
• Experience CAD for electrical design is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design automation strategies for manufacturing processes.
• Develop and maintain PLC programs, HMIs, and SCADA configurations.
• Oversee remote implementation and integration of systems.
• Provide remote support and troubleshooting.
• Create technical documentation (P&IDs, schematics).
• Stay updated on automation tech and robotics.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

SCADA systems

Robotics programming

Industrial networking

Sensors & actuators & VFDs

Remote troubleshooting

Education

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

Tools

CAD software (electrical design)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced manufacturing, is actively searching for a highly skilled Remote Automation Specialist to join their innovative team. This is a 100% remote position, allowing you to contribute your expertise from any location. The role involves designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems and solutions to enhance production efficiency, reduce manual labor, and improve overall operational performance. You will be instrumental in identifying opportunities for automation across various manufacturing processes, selecting appropriate technologies, and overseeing their integration. This position demands a proactive approach, strong technical acumen, and exceptional remote collaboration skills. You will work closely with on-site engineering and production teams to ensure seamless integration and successful deployment of automated solutions, driving our client's technological advancements.

Key Responsibilities

Design and develop automation strategies and solutions for manufacturing processes. Identify suitable automation technologies, including robotics, PLCs, SCADA systems, and AI-driven solutions. Oversee the implementation and integration of automated systems, ensuring compatibility and efficiency. Develop and maintain control logic, PLC programming, and HMI interfaces for automated equipment. Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to automated systems remotely. Collaborate with internal engineering and operations teams to understand requirements and provide automation expertise. Conduct feasibility studies and pilot projects for new automation initiatives. Develop technical documentation, including P&IDs, electrical schematics, and operating manuals. Stay current with advancements in automation technology, robotics, and industrial control systems. Provide remote support and training to maintenance and operations personnel on automated systems.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field. Minimum of 6 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems within a manufacturing environment. Proven experience in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell), HMI development, and SCADA systems. Proficiency with industrial robotics programming and integration. Strong understanding of sensors, actuators, VFDs, and other automation components. Experience with network protocols used in industrial automation (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus). Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills for diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues. Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment. Self-motivated, with the ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks independently. Experience with CAD software for electrical design is a plus.

Benefits

This fully remote role offers unparalleled flexibility and autonomy. Our client provides a competitive salary, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and significant opportunities for professional development in the rapidly evolving field of industrial automation. You will be part of a forward-thinking organization that values innovation and invests in its employees' growth. Join our client and make a substantial impact on manufacturing modernization from wherever you are located, contributing to our operations in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal (while working remotely) and beyond.