Remote Industrial Engineer - Process Automation Specialist

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work flexibility

Competitive salary

Health coverage and retirement plan

Learning and development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly skilled Industrial Engineer specializing in Process Automation for a fully remote role across South Africa, with a focus on the Eastern Cape industrial sector near Port Elizabeth. The position emphasizes designing and implementing automation solutions, optimizing processes, and integrating robotics, control systems and data-driven improvements.

You will work with cross-functional teams remotely, evaluate ROI, develop specifications, and stay abreast of robotics,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 6+ years of experience in industrial engineering with focus on process automation and systems integration.
• Experience with industrial robots (FANUC, KUKA, ABB), PLCs, HMI, and SCADA.
• Strong Lean Manufacturing knowledge and application in automated environments.
• Experience with simulation software for robotic work cells and production lines.
• Proven analytical, problem-solving and remote collaboration skills.
• Proficiency in programming languages used in automation (ladder logic, structured text, C++).
• Experience with data acquisition and analysis from automated systems.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate automation opportunities within manufacturing and industrial processes.
• Design and implement automated systems including robotic cells and control logic.
• Analyze process data to find bottlenecks and improve efficiency, throughput and quality.
• Develop technical specifications for automation hardware and software.
• Collaborate with controls engineers, software developers, and operations teams.
• Conduct feasibility studies and ROI analyses for automation projects.
• Create and maintain process documentation (P&IDs, narratives, SOPs).
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for automated lines.
• Stay updated with advancements in automation tech, robotics, AI, and industrial applications.
• Manage multiple automation projects remotely from concept to deployment.

Skills

Automation

Robotics

PLC

SCADA

HMI

Lean Manufacturing

Data analysis

Ladder logic

Structured text

C++

Education

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

Tools

FANUC

KUKA

ABB

PLCs

HMI

SCADA

Simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a highly skilled Industrial Engineer with a specialization in Process Automation to join their forward-thinking team. This is a completely remote position, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere in South Africa, with a focus on optimizing operations within the Eastern Cape's industrial sector, particularly around Port Elizabeth . You will be responsible for identifying opportunities to implement automation solutions, improve system efficiency, and integrate cutting-edge technologies into existing production processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in automation, robotics, and control systems, coupled with a deep understanding of industrial engineering principles. As a remote specialist, you'll work on diverse projects, collaborate with virtual teams, and drive innovation in a flexible work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate, and recommend automation opportunities within manufacturing and industrial processes.
• Design, develop, and implement automated systems, including robotic cells, control logic, and integration with existing infrastructure.
• Analyze process data to identify bottlenecks and areas where automation can significantly improve efficiency, throughput, and quality.
• Develop technical specifications for automation hardware and software.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including controls engineers, software developers, and operations personnel, to ensure successful project implementation.
• Conduct feasibility studies and ROI analyses for proposed automation projects.
• Create and maintain process documentation, including P&IDs, control narratives, and standard operating procedures for automated systems.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for automated production lines.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology, robotics, AI, and their applications in industrial settings.
• Manage multiple automation projects concurrently from concept through to successful deployment, remotely.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in industrial engineering with a strong focus on process automation and systems integration.
• Proven experience with industrial robots (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB), PLCs, HMI development, and SCADA systems.
• Solid understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and their application in automated environments.
• Experience with simulation software for robotic work cells and production lines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a knack for troubleshooting complex automated systems.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team setting.
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in automation (e.g., ladder logic, structured text, C++).
• Experience with data acquisition and analysis from automated systems. Must be self-motivated, organized, and capable of managing time effectively in a remote work capacity.

Benefits

This is a fully remote position offering unparalleled flexibility. Our client provides a competitive salary, excellent benefits package including comprehensive health coverage and retirement contributions, and opportunities for continuous learning and professional development in the rapidly evolving field of automation. You'll have the chance to work on challenging and innovative projects impacting the industrial landscape from Port Elizabeth to the wider region, all from the convenience of your home office. Embrace a career that offers growth, autonomy, and the chance to shape the future of manufacturing.