Remote Lead Industrial Automation Engineer

Placements24; Cape Town; Híbrido; ZAR 1 482 000 - 2 635 000; Tempo integral

Resumo da oferta

Placements24 seeks a Lead Industrial Automation Engineer for a fully remote role. You will architect and implement advanced automation systems, integrating PLCs, HMI/SCADA, and robotics across diverse applications.

In this remote-first setting, lead a distributed team, collaborate with clients virtually, and drive project success while ensuring safety and compliance across global initiatives.

Qualificações

• 8+ years in industrial automation engineering
• Experience in lead/senior capacity
• Proven ability to lead remotely/distributed teams
• Expertise in PLC programming, HMI/SCADA, and robotics

Responsabilidades

• Lead design and development of automation systems (PLC, HMI, SCADA, robotics)
• Manage full lifecycle of projects remotely
• Collaborate with stakeholders via virtual channels to define scope
• Mentor distributed team of automation engineers
• Create technical design docs, manuals, and testing protocols
• Stay current with emerging automation tech and regulatory standards

Conhecimentos

Team leadership

Remote collaboration

Problem solving

Communication

Time management

Formação académica

Bachelor's or Master's in Engineering/CS

Ferramentas

Rockwell PLC

Siemens PLC

HMI/SCADA tools

Fanuc

KUKA

Descrição da oferta de emprego

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced manufacturing solutions, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Industrial Automation Engineer to join their fully remote team. This pivotal role involves the design, development, and implementation of cutting‑edge automation systems across diverse industrial applications. You will be instrumental in driving innovation, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring the seamless integration of robotics, control systems, and software solutions. As a remote‑first organization, we foster a culture of autonomy, collaboration, and continuous learning, providing the tools and support necessary for success regardless of your physical location. This position is ideal for a strategic thinker who excels in a virtual environment and is passionate about shaping the future of industrial automation. You will lead a team of talented engineers, guiding them through complex projects and mentoring their professional growth. The role offers the flexibility of working from anywhere, contributing to projects with global impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of advanced industrial automation systems, including PLC programming, HMI design, SCADA implementation, and robotic integration.
• Oversee the entire lifecycle of automation projects, from requirements gathering and system design to installation, commissioning, and validation, all managed remotely.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders and external clients through virtual channels to define project scope, objectives, and technical specifications.
• Manage and mentor a distributed team of automation engineers, providing technical guidance, performance feedback, and fostering a collaborative remote working environment.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive project documentation, including design specifications, user manuals, and testing protocols.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies for automation projects.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues in automation systems, often requiring remote diagnostics and support.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies, industry best practices, and regulatory requirements, sharing knowledge across the remote team.
• Drive innovation by researching and recommending new automation technologies and methodologies to enhance system performance and efficiency.
• Ensure that all automation solutions comply with safety standards and company policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Extensive experience (8+ years) in industrial automation engineering, with a significant portion in a lead or senior capacity.
• Proven expertise in PLC programming (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens), HMI/SCADA development, and robotic programming (e.g., Fanuc, KUKA).
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing complex automation projects in a remote or distributed team setting.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet) and cybersecurity principles.
• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills, with a methodical approach to troubleshooting.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills, adapted for remote interaction.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a fully remote work environment.
• Experience with simulation software and virtual commissioning tools is highly desirable.
• A proactive mindset with a passion for technological advancement in automation.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package and performance‑based incentives.
• Employees receive comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• We provide a generous annual leave allowance and flexible public holiday options.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including online courses, certifications, and virtual conferences, are readily available.
• A retirement savings plan with company matching is part of the package.
• This role offers the unique benefit of a fully remote work arrangement, allowing for unparalleled flexibility and work‑life balance.
• Employees also gain access to a cutting‑edge virtual collaboration platform and supportive team culture.