Remote Industrial Automation Engineer

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development & certs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Remote Industrial Automation Engineer to design, program, and implement PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for a global client base. The role enables work from any location within supported time zones, driving efficiency, safety, and productivity across diverse industries.

You will remotely commission, troubleshoot, and optimize systems, collaborating with international project teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering with a strong focus on PLC/HMI/SCADA programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider Electric).
• Proven experience in remote system troubleshooting and support.
• Excellent understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to diagnose complex issues independently.
• Proficiency in using simulation software for testing and validation.
• Exceptional communication and collaboration skills for effective remote teamwork and client interaction.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and program PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for various industrial applications.
• Remotely commission and troubleshoot automation systems for clients across different geographical locations.
• Collaborate with clients and internal project teams to define system requirements and specifications.
• Develop detailed technical documentation, including programming manuals, wiring diagrams, and test procedures.
• Conduct remote system performance analysis and optimization to ensure maximum efficiency and reliability.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology and propose innovative solutions.
• Provide remote technical support and training to clients and end-users.
• Participate in virtual project meetings and contribute to project planning and execution.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and safety regulations in all designs and implementations.
• Manage assigned automation projects from initiation to successful closure, ensuring client satisfaction.

Skills

PLC/HMI/SCADA programming

Remote troubleshooting

Industrial communication protocols

Electrical/Mechatronics background

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering / Mechatronics / Industrial Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLCs

Allen-Bradley PLCs

Schneider Electric PLCs

Job description

About the Role Our client, a rapidly expanding global provider of industrial automation solutions, is actively seeking a talented and dedicated Remote Industrial Automation Engineer. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within accepted time zones. The role focuses on the design, development, programming, and implementation of automated control systems for a diverse range of manufacturing and processing industries. The successful candidate will be instrumental in developing innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and productivity for our clients worldwide. This position requires a self-motivated individual with exceptional technical skills, a strong understanding of automation principles, and the ability to thrive in a remote, collaborative environment. You will be working with a dynamic international team on cutting-edge projects, contributing to the advancement of industrial technology without the need for physical presence at a specific office location. This role is ideal for an experienced engineer seeking a challenging and rewarding career path with unparalleled flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and program PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for various industrial applications.
• Remotely commission and troubleshoot automation systems for clients across different geographical locations.
• Collaborate with clients and internal project teams to define system requirements and specifications.
• Develop detailed technical documentation, including programming manuals, wiring diagrams, and test procedures.
• Conduct remote system performance analysis and optimization to ensure maximum efficiency and reliability.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology and propose innovative solutions.
• Provide remote technical support and training to clients and end-users.
• Participate in virtual project meetings and contribute to project planning and execution.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and safety regulations in all designs and implementations.
• Manage assigned automation projects from initiation to successful closure, ensuring client satisfaction.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering, with a strong focus on PLC/HMI/SCADA programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider Electric).
• Proven experience in remote system troubleshooting and support.
• Excellent understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to diagnose complex issues independently.
• Proficiency in using simulation software for testing and validation.
• Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, enabling effective remote teamwork and client interaction.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a remote work setting.
• High-speed internet connectivity and a dedicated home office setup are essential.
• Flexibility to adapt to different time zones for client support and team collaboration is required.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary commensurate with experience, coupled with a comprehensive benefits package. This includes private health insurance, a retirement savings plan, and opportunities for professional development and certifications. The company champions work-life balance, providing significant paid annual leave and encouraging continuous learning. Employees benefit from access to advanced remote working tools and technologies, fostering productivity and collaboration. You'll be part of a dynamic and supportive global team, working on innovative projects that push the boundaries of industrial automation. This role is designed for individuals who excel in independent work and thrive on technical challenges.