Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks a Senior Automation and Controls Engineer to join the on-site operations team. You will design, implement, and optimize PLC, HMI, SCADA, and robotic systems across production lines.

The role requires a strong engineering background with 7+ years in industrial automation, proficiency in Siemens TIA Portal and Rockwell Studio 5000, and hands-on factory-floor experience. This is a demanding on-site position with opportunities for impact and growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 7+ years hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proficiency with PLC programming platforms (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000) and robotics.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for new and existing automated machinery.
• Integrate and troubleshoot robotic systems (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB) into production processes.
• Develop and maintain electrical control panel designs and schematics.
• Implement and maintain industrial network communications (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Profinet).
• Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for automation system failures.
• Collaborate with production and maintenance teams to identify automation improvements and efficiency gains.
• Develop and execute testing procedures for automation systems.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance personnel on automation equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations related to industrial automation.
• Document all automation system designs, programs, and troubleshooting procedures.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Industrial robotics

Troubleshooting

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

HMI/SCADA software

Industrial networking (Ethernet/IP/Profinet/Profibus)

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a rapidly expanding manufacturing firm in Durban , specializing in advanced industrial automation solutions. They are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Automation and Controls Engineer to join their operations team. This is a critical, on-site role, essential for maintaining and optimizing the sophisticated automated systems that drive their production lines. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, troubleshooting, and ongoing improvement of PLC, HMI, SCADA, and robotic systems. The ideal candidate will possess a strong analytical mindset, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of industrial control systems within a manufacturing environment. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the efficiency and technological advancement of a key player in the KwaZulu-Natal industrial sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for new and existing automated machinery.
• Integrate and troubleshoot robotic systems (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB) into production processes.
• Develop and maintain electrical control panel designs and schematics.
• Implement and maintain industrial network communications (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Profinet).
• Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for automation system failures.
• Collaborate with production and maintenance teams to identify areas for automation improvement and efficiency gains.
• Develop and execute testing procedures for automation systems.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance personnel on automation equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations related to industrial automation.
• Document all automation system designs, programs, and troubleshooting procedures.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation and control systems engineering.
• Proven proficiency with PLC programming platforms (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000).
• Experience with various HMI/SCADA software packages.
• Solid understanding of industrial robotics and programming.
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• Experience with industrial networking protocols and troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of electrical schematics and control panel design.
• Strong diagnostic and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Must be able to work effectively on the factory floor in Durban .
• Experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment is essential.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and a retirement fund. You will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge automation technology in a stable and growing manufacturing company located in Durban . Exposure to diverse automation projects and continuous learning opportunities are provided. The company values employee development and offers pathways for career progression within the organization. This role is ideal for an engineer seeking a challenging and rewarding on-site position within the thriving industrial hub of Durban .