Remote Industrial Control Systems Engineer

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health, dental, and 视s

Generous paid time off and holidays

Professional development opportunities

Access to cutting-edge technology

Flexible remote work schedule

Retirement savings plan with company 2

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct is seeking an Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Engineer to join a remote-first team. You will design, deploy, and maintain SCADA, PLC, and HMI solutions for critical industrial processes from a home office, collaborating across time zones.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years of hands-on PLC/SCADA/HMI experience, strong programming skills (C++, Python, ST), and solid knowledge of industrial protocols. A remote/hybrid work setting and ongoing professional development are supported.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field; a Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in designing, programming, and troubleshooting PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), SCADA systems, and HMI software.
• Proficiency in one or more programming languages commonly used in IC environments, such as C++, Python, or structured text.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience with cybersecurity principles and best practices for Industrial Control Systems.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated experience working in a remote or hybrid work setting.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Design, configure, and deploy SCADA systems, PLCs, and HMIs for various industrial applications.
• Develop and implement control strategies, logic, and algorithms to optimize process performance and efficiency.
• Conduct remote troubleshooting, diagnostics, and root cause analysis of system failures and performance issues.
• Collaborate with project managers, software developers, and field technicians to ensure successful project delivery and integration.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive system documentation, including design specifications, configuration manuals, and operating procedures.
• Perform system upgrades, patches, and security assessments in coordination with IT and OT teams.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry best practices in industrial automation and control systems.
• Provide technical support and guidance to end-users and operational teams.

Skills

SCADA systems

PLC programming

HMI software

Python / C++ / structured text

Industrial protocols (Modbus/Profibus/

Ethernet/IP)

Cybersecurity for ICS

Remote work suitability

Technical communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Siemens PLCs

Allen-Bradley PLCs

HMI software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Engineer to join our dynamic team. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned professional to contribute to critical infrastructure projects from the comfort of their home office. As a fully remote employee, you will play a pivotal role in designing, implementing, and maintaining advanced control systems that ensure the seamless operation of complex industrial processes. We are dedicated to fostering a collaborative and innovative remote-first environment where your expertise is valued, and your contributions make a tangible impact. This role requires a proactive individual who can work independently while effectively collaborating with cross-functional teams across various time zones. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of automation, SCADA, PLCs, and HMI systems, with a proven track record of success in challenging environments. We are committed to providing our remote workforce with the tools, support, and professional development opportunities needed to excel in their roles and advance their careers within our organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, configure, and deploy Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for various industrial applications.
• Develop and implement control strategies, logic, and algorithms to optimize process performance and efficiency.
• Conduct remote troubleshooting, diagnostics, and root cause analysis of system failures and performance issues.
• Collaborate with project managers, software developers, and field technicians to ensure successful project delivery and integration.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive system documentation, including design specifications, configuration manuals, and operating procedures.
• Perform system upgrades, patches, and security assessments in coordination with IT and operational technology teams.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry best practices in industrial automation and control systems.
• Provide technical support and guidance to end-users and operational teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field; a Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in designing, programming, and troubleshooting PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), SCADA systems, and HMI software.
• Proficiency in one or more programming languages commonly used in IC environments, such as C++, Python, or structured text.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience with cybersecurity principles and best practices for Industrial Control Systems.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated experience working in a remote or hybrid work setting.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Opportunities for professional development, certifications, and continued learning.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and tools.
• Flexible remote work schedule.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Performance-based bonuses.