Remote Senior Industrial Controls Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical insurance

Generous leave

Professional development

Remote work environment

International project exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Industrial Controls Engineer to lead the design and deployment of advanced control systems for a global client base. The role emphasizes PLC/HMI/SCADA development, robot integration, and remote diagnostics from a distributed engineering team.

Ideal candidates bring 8+ years’ experience in industrial automation, strong Siemens/Rockwell skills, and leadership ability to guide cross-functional teams in a remote-capable environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years in industrial controls engineering and automation projects.
• Strong PLC proficiency across Siemens and Rockwell platforms.
• Experience with HMI/SCADA tools and networking protocols.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, programming, and testing of complex control systems (PLC/HMI/SCADA).
• Architect robot integration and ensure seamless operation within automated systems.
• Create electrical schematics, control panels, and CAD documentation.
• Diagnose issues remotely and provide efficient troubleshooting.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, software, and PM teams.
• Oversee commissioning and provide remote start-up support.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Robotics

Electrical design

Project leadership

Remote work

Education

Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics/Automation option

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Logix 5000

Wonderware Ignition

FactoryTalk View

CAD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in advanced manufacturing and automation, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Industrial Controls Engineer to join their distinguished, fully remote engineering team. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced professional to take a lead role in designing, developing, and implementing sophisticated control systems for a variety of industrial applications. You will leverage your extensive expertise in PLC programming, HMI design, SCADA integration, and robotics to drive innovation and ensure the highest standards of operational efficiency and system reliability for our client's global customer base. Working remotely allows for deep focus and contribution from anywhere, with the understanding that occasional travel for critical project phases might be required, though the role is predominantly remote. We are dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence and continuous learning within our distributed workforce, supporting you from our operational hub near Centurion, Gauteng, ZA .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, programming, and testing of complex industrial control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, and VFDs.
• Architect and implement robot integration solutions, ensuring seamless communication and operation within automated systems.
• Develop and maintain detailed electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and system documentation using CAD software.
• Perform in-depth system analysis, diagnostics, and troubleshooting to resolve issues efficiently, often remotely.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, software developers, and project managers, to deliver integrated automation solutions.
• Specify and select appropriate control system components, sensors, and actuators.
• Oversee the commissioning of new control systems, providing remote support during start-up and testing phases.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians, sharing knowledge and best practices in industrial automation.
• Stay current with emerging technologies in industrial control and automation, and evaluate their potential application.
• Ensure all designs and implementations comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and client specifications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in industrial controls engineering and automation project execution.
• Expert proficiency in programming and troubleshooting multiple PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Logix 5000).
• Extensive experience with HMI/SCADA software packages (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition, FactoryTalk View).
• Solid understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP).
• Experience with industrial robot programming and integration (e.g., Fanuc, KUKA, ABB).
• Strong knowledge of electrical design principles, motor control, and safety standards (e.g., IEC 61508/61511).
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and lead technical teams, preferably in a remote capacity.
• Excellent communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a remote environment, requiring strong self-discipline and initiative.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and life insurance coverage.
• Generous annual leave and company holidays.
• Significant investment in professional development, including training and certifications.
• Access to state-of-the-art simulation and design tools.
• A dynamic and innovative remote work environment.
• Retirement fund contributions.
• Potential for international project involvement.