Remote Industrial Automation Specialist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Remote work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Industrial Automation Specialist to join a global team in a fully remote role operating from South Africa. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and supporting automated control systems across manufacturing processes.

You will work on PLC programming, HMI development, robotics integration, and SCADA systems, delivering remote support and optimization for clients worldwide.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science or related field.
• Minimum 6 years hands-on experience in industrial automation including PLC/HMI programming, robotics and SCADA.
• Proven ability to design and implement complex automation solutions.
• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills for industrial control systems.
• Solid understanding of electrical and mechanical principles in automation.
• Proficient in at least one major PLC programming package; remote collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission PLC and HMI systems for various industrial applications.
• Integrate robots, vision systems, and other automated equipment into manufacturing lines.
• Develop and maintain SCADA systems for process monitoring and data acquisition.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose automation issues, providing remote support and solutions.
• Conduct system upgrades and implement process improvements to boost efficiency and reliability.
• Collaborate with clients and engineering teams to define project requirements and scope.
• Create and maintain detailed technical documentation including schematics and user manuals.
• Stay updated with advancements in automation technologies and best practices.
• Ensure automation solutions comply with safety standards and industry regulations.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Robotics integration

SCADA systems

Troubleshooting

Electrical concepts

Remote collaboration

Effective communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering / Mechatronics / CS

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

HMI software

SCADA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in industrial automation for the manufacturing sector, is seeking an experienced Industrial Automation Specialist to join their global team on a fully remote basis. This role is crucial for designing, implementing, and supporting automated control systems for manufacturing processes. The specialist will work on projects involving PLC programming, HMI development, robotic integration, and SCADA systems, enabling clients to enhance their production efficiency and quality. As a remote position, you will have the flexibility to work from anywhere in South Africa, collaborating with teams and clients worldwide. We are looking for a highly skilled engineer with a passion for automation and a proven ability to deliver complex solutions remotely. Expertise in troubleshooting and optimizing industrial control systems is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission PLC and HMI systems for various industrial applications.
• Integrate robots, vision systems, and other automated equipment into existing manufacturing lines.
• Develop and maintain SCADA systems for process monitoring and data acquisition.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with automation systems, providing remote support and solutions.
• Conduct system upgrades and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reliability.
• Collaborate with clients and internal engineering teams to define project requirements and scope.
• Create and maintain detailed technical documentation, including electrical schematics, program logic, and user manuals.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in industrial automation technologies and best practices.
• Ensure all automation solutions comply with relevant safety standards and industry regulations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation, including PLC/HMI programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), robotics, and SCADA systems.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing complex automation solutions.
• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills for industrial control systems.
• Excellent understanding of electrical and mechanical principles related to automation.
• Proficiency in at least one major PLC programming software package is mandatory.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate remotely.
• Must have a reliable internet connection and a dedicated home office setup.

Benefits

• This fully remote role offers a highly competitive salary, performance bonuses, and excellent health and retirement benefits.
• You will have the opportunity to work on diverse and challenging automation projects for a global client base.
• Continuous learning and professional development are strongly encouraged, with access to online training resources.
• Enjoy the flexibility of working from home while making a significant impact on industrial automation.