Remote Automation Technician

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 413,000 - 827,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work

Competitive contractor rate

Travel to client sites (expenses paid)

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Remote Automation Technician to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot industrial automation systems from SA. You will work with PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA remotely, serving a global client base and providing proactive support.

The ideal candidate has 4+ years in industrial automation, strong PLC/HMI/SCADA skills, and expertise in Profinet, Ethernet/IP, and Modbus. English fluency and independent work capabilities are essential.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience with industrial automation systems (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider Electric).
• Proficiency in PLC programming (Ladder Logic, Structured Text) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Proven experience with remote troubleshooting and diagnostic tools.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a systematic approach to technical challenges.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines without direct supervision.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical information clearly to non-technical stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Remotely configure, install, and commission industrial automation systems including PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA.
• Monitor system performance and proactively resolve issues via remote access tools.
• Provide real-time technical support to clients via phone, email, and remote sessions.
• Develop and maintain documentation for configurations and procedures.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to implement software updates and system enhancements.
• Perform remote diagnostics and data analysis to identify root causes of failures.
• Train client personnel through remote sessions on operation and maintenance.
• Stay updated on automation tech and cybersecurity best practices.
• Ensure remote access and data security protocols are followed.
• Manage multiple client requests concurrently and prioritize effectively.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA development

Industrial networking

Remote troubleshooting

Communication

Independent work

Education

Electrical Engineering degree

Mechatronics diploma

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

Schneider Electric PLC

Profinet

Ethernet/IP

Modbus

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a pioneering technology firm specializing in industrial automation solutions, seeking a highly skilled and self-motivated Remote Automation Technician. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa . You will be responsible for the remote configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting of automated systems for a global clientele. This role requires exceptional technical acumen, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and the ability to thrive in an independent work environment. You will work with cutting-edge technologies and play a vital role in ensuring the seamless operation of complex automated processes for our diverse range of clients. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial controls, programming, and network communication protocols, coupled with excellent remote diagnostic capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Remotely configure, install, and commission industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.
• Monitor system performance, identify anomalies, and proactively resolve technical issues through remote access tools.
• Provide real-time technical support and troubleshooting assistance to clients via phone, email, and remote desktop sessions.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for system configurations, operating procedures, and troubleshooting guides.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to implement software updates, patches, and system enhancements.
• Perform remote diagnostics and data analysis to identify root causes of system failures or performance degradation.
• Train client personnel on the operation and basic maintenance of automated systems through remote sessions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology and cybersecurity best practices.
• Ensure all remote access and data security protocols are strictly followed.
• Manage multiple client support requests concurrently, prioritizing effectively.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience with industrial automation systems (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider Electric).
• Proficiency in PLC programming (Ladder Logic, Structured Text, etc.) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Proven experience with remote troubleshooting and diagnostic tools.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a systematic approach to technical challenges.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines without direct supervision.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical information clearly to non-technical stakeholders.
• Reliable high-speed internet connection and a dedicated, quiet workspace.
• Experience with robotics and vision systems is a plus.
• Proficiency in English is essential.

Benefits

• Fully remote work arrangement offering unparalleled flexibility.
• Competitive contractor rate with potential for long-term engagement.
• Opportunity to work with state-of-the-art automation technologies.
• Exposure to diverse industries and international clients.
• Professional development opportunities and training certifications.
• Flexible working hours, adapted to global client needs.
• Contribution to innovative projects shaping the future of industry.
• Access to a robust remote support infrastructure.
• Potential for travel to client sites for critical installations or complex issues (expenses covered).
• A dynamic and forward-thinking work environment.