Senior Automation and Control Engineer

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Remote work flexibility

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Automation and Control Engineer to design, implement, and optimize automated control systems for complex industrial processes. You will lead PLC/SCADA/HMI work, collaborate with process and electrical engineers, and mentor junior staff, with a strong emphasis on Bloemfontein operations.

The role requires 7+ years in industrial automation, a bachelor's in Electrical/Mechatronics/Control Systems, and proficiency in major PLC platforms and SCADA/DCS systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechatronics, or Control Systems Engineering.
• 7+ years of experience in industrial automation and control systems.
• Expertise in PLC programming and SCADA/DCS systems.
• Strong problem-solving and remote/site collaboration skills.
• Experience in mining or heavy industry is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement automation and control systems including PLC programming and HMI development.
• Specify control hardware and software for industrial applications.
• Develop and maintain system documentation (P&IDs, diagrams, and functional design specifications).
• Troubleshoot control systems remotely or on-site as required.
• Optimize control loops and automation strategies to improve performance, safety, and efficiency.
• Collaborate with process, electrical engineers and operations to ensure integration.
• Lead and mentor junior automation engineers.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards for Bloemfontein projects.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA configuration

HMI development

Troubleshooting

Process optimization

Industrial networking

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Control Systems Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell/Allen-Bradley PLC

Schneider Electric PLC

Wonderware

Ignition

WinCC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading force in the mining and minerals processing industry, is seeking an experienced Senior Automation and Control Engineer to bolster their technical team, based remotely but with significant project involvement in the Bloemfontein region. This role is pivotal in designing, implementing, and optimizing automated control systems for complex industrial processes. You will be instrumental in enhancing plant efficiency, safety, and product quality through the application of advanced control strategies and technologies. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of PLC/SCADA systems, DCS, industrial networks, and a strong aptitude for problem-solving in demanding operational environments. Your contributions will directly impact the operational performance of key mining facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement robust automation and control systems, including PLC programming, SCADA configuration, and HMI development.
• Specify and select appropriate control hardware and software for industrial applications.
• Develop and maintain system documentation, including P&IDs, logic diagrams, and functional design specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex control system issues, both remotely and on-site as required.
• Optimize existing control loops and automation strategies to improve process performance, efficiency, and safety.
• Collaborate with process engineers, electrical engineers, and operations personnel to ensure seamless integration of control systems.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in automation technology and recommend their adoption where appropriate.
• Lead and mentor junior automation engineers.
• Ensure compliance with industry safety standards and best practices for automation projects impacting Bloemfontein operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechatronics, or Control Systems Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in industrial automation and control system engineering.
• Proficiency in programming major PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Schneider Electric).
• Experience with SCADA systems (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition, WinCC) and DCS platforms.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP).
• Experience in process optimization and advanced control strategies.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities, crucial for remote collaboration and site visits relevant to Bloemfontein.
• Experience in the mining or heavy industry sector is a significant advantage.

Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive health insurance, and retirement benefits. The remote work arrangement provides excellent flexibility. You will have the opportunity to work on challenging and impactful projects within the resource sector, contributing to operational excellence in facilities linked to Bloemfontein. Our client fosters a culture of innovation and continuous learning.