Remote Field Support Engineer - Automation Systems

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance and short/di

Disability coverage

Home office allowance

Learning opportunities

Flexible remote working schedule

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Remote Field Support Engineer to join its technical services division. The role is fully remote within South Africa, and you will be the primary remote expert for automation systems worldwide.

You will troubleshoot PLCs, robotics, and SCADA, guide client personnel, document activities, and collaborate with engineering teams. The position rewards technical excellence, independence, and a remote-first work culture.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in industrial automation support, field service, or systems integration.
• Deep knowledge of PLC programming and troubleshooting with Siemens or Rockwell.
• Experience with robotics (KUKA, ABB, FANUC) and SCADA/HMI software.
• Proficiency in industrial networking protocols like Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus.

Responsibilities

• Provide remote technical support and troubleshooting for industrial automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, Robotics, SCADA).
• Diagnose hardware, software, and network issues using remote tools and diagnostics.
• Guide on-site client personnel through troubleshooting and repair procedures remotely.
• Analyze system performance data and identify optimization opportunities.
• Document support activities and resolutions in the CRM system.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to escalate and resolve complex issues.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation and FAQs.
• Monitor client systems and recommend preventive maintenance.
• Conduct remote training sessions for client staff on system operation.

Skills

Industrial automation

PLC programming

Remote support

Networking protocols

Robotics

SCADA

Education

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

Tools

Siemens PLCs

Rockwell Automation

KUKA/ABB/FANUC robotics

Ethernet/IP/Profinet/Modbus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in industrial automation, is seeking an experienced Remote Field Support Engineer to join their esteemed technical services division. This role is designed to be fully remote, offering you the unparalleled flexibility to operate from your home base anywhere in **South Africa**. You will be the primary point of contact for providing expert‑level remote assistance, troubleshooting, and technical guidance for complex automation systems, including PLCs, robotics, and SCADA systems, deployed at client sites worldwide. This position requires a deep technical acumen, exceptional problem‑solving abilities, and outstanding communication skills, particularly in a virtual setting. You will leverage advanced remote access tools and diagnostic software to ensure rapid issue resolution and maintain the operational efficiency of our clients’ manufacturing processes. Our client fosters a robust remote‑first culture, providing extensive resources, training, and collaborative platforms to ensure your success and professional development in this critical role.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide remote technical support and troubleshooting for industrial automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, Robotics, SCADA).
• Diagnose complex hardware, software, and network issues using remote access tools and diagnostic utilities.
• Guide on‑site client personnel through troubleshooting and repair procedures.
• Analyze system performance data and identify areas for optimization.
• Document all support activities, resolutions, and client interactions in the CRM system.
• Collaborate closely with the engineering and product development teams to escal and resolve complex technical issues.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, knowledge base articles, and FAQs.
• Proactively monitor client systems for potential issues and provide recommendations for preventive maintenance.
• Conduct remote training sessions for client technical staff on system operation and maintenance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in industrial automation support, field service, or systems integration.
• In-depth knowledge of PLC programming and troubleshooting (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell Automation).
• Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., KUKA, ABB, FANUC) and SCADA/HMI software.
• Proficiency in industrial networking protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus).
• Exceptional analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, adapted for remote interaction.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage priorities, and perform effectively in a remote environment.
• Experience with remote diagnostic tools and virtual collaboration platforms is essential.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for critical on‑site interventions if required.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package with performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive private medical insurance and disability coverage.
• Generous allowance for home office setup and recurring expenses.
• Extensive opportunities for continuous learning, certifications, and career advancement.
• Flexible remote working schedule.
• Retirement savings plan with employer match.
• A supportive and innovative remote work culture that promotes work-life balance.