Remote Industrial Automation Specialist

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Home office stipend

laptop provided

Comprehensive health and retirement

Stock options

Remote work flexibility

Professional development access

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Industrial Automation Specialist to design, develop, and support automated control systems for industrial processes from a home office, with administrative duties based in Welkom, Free State. The role emphasizes PLC/SCADA expertise, robotics, and remote troubleshooting to optimize global manufacturing efficiency.

The candidate should have a bachelor’s degree in a related field and at least six years of hands‑on experience, with proficiency in Siemens S7,

Qualifications

• Bachelor or equivalent experience in industrial automation or control systems.
• Minimum 6 years hands‑on automation experience with PLC/SCADA projects.
• Strong troubleshooting, documentation, and remote support skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement PLC/SCADA solutions and robotic integration.
• Develop, test, and maintain control system software for reliability and safety.
• Troubleshoot issues remotely and on‑site when required.
• Create detailed documentation including P&IDs and schematics.
• Collaborate with engineers and production teams to define project scope.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA/HMI

Robotic cell integration

VFD configuration

Industrial networks

Remote troubleshooting

Programming & debugging

Education

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

Tools

Siemens S7

Rockwell ControlLogix/CompactLogix

Wonderware / Ignition / FactoryTalk View

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a talented and experienced Remote Industrial Automation Specialist to join their forward-thinking engineering team. This position is fully remote, allowing you to work from anywhere, but based within Welkom, Free State for administrative purposes. You will be responsible for the design, development, implementation, and support of automated control systems for industrial processes. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, and process control strategies, coupled with strong programming and troubleshooting skills. This is a unique opportunity to leverage your expertise in automation technologies from the comfort of your home office and contribute to optimizing manufacturing and production efficiency on a global scale.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement industrial automation solutions, including PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMI/SCADA development, and robotic cell integration.
• Develop and maintain control system software, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and safety.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation system issues, both remotely and through on‑site support when required.
• Conduct system testing, commissioning, and validation to ensure adherence to design specifications and functional requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and production managers, to define automation requirements and project scope.
• Create and maintain detailed technical documentation, including P&IDs, electrical schematics, functional design specifications, and user manuals.
• Stay current with advancements in industrial automation technologies, including IIoT, machine learning for process optimization, and advanced robotics.
• Develop and implement strategies for predictive maintenance and remote monitoring of automated systems.
• Provide technical training and support to plant personnel on automated systems.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations throughout all automation projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation, control systems engineering, or a similar role.
• Proficiency in programming and configuring PLCs (e.g., Siemens S7, Rockwell ControlLogix/CompactLogix) and VFDs.
• Experience with SCADA/HMI software platforms (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition, FactoryTalk View).
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus).
• Experience with robotic programming (e.g., KUKA, FANUC) is a strong plus.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a methodical approach to troubleshooting.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, essential for remote teamwork.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and prioritize tasks effectively in a remote setting.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for on‑site commissioning or critical support if absolutely necessary.

Benefits

• Highly attractive annual salary package.
• Significant opportunities for remote work flexibility.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and retirement benefits.
• Home office stipend for setting up an optimal workspace.
• Continuous professional development and access to specialized training.
• Exposure to cutting‑edge automation technologies and challenging projects.
• Performance‑based bonuses and potential for stock options.
• Company‑provided laptop and necessary software licenses.
• A dynamic and innovative work culture that values remote contribution.