Senior Automation Controls Technician

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Medical aid

Annual bonus

Training & certs

Pension fund

Paid annual leave

Safety gear

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automation Controls Technician in Bloemfontein to maintain and improve automated production systems. You will diagnose complex electrical and control issues and implement repair strategies, combining floor-work with remote analysis to optimize performance.

The role requires PLC/HMI/SCADA proficiency, VFD experience, and collaboration with engineering teams. A strong focus on safety and records management is essential, with occasional overtime and a rotating shift

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in automation controls.
• Proficiency in PLC programming and troubleshooting across platforms.
• Experience with HMI/SCADA tooling and industrial sensors.

Responsibilities

• Perform preventative maintenance, diagnostics, and repair of industrial automation control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and robotic equipment.
• Troubleshoot complex electrical and mechanical issues affecting production machinery, identifying root causes of failures.
• Program, modify, and test PLC logic and HMI interfaces to optimize machine performance.
• Install, calibrate, and maintain industrial sensors, actuators, and control devices.
• Work with VFDs, servo drives, and motion control systems for smooth operation.
• Collaborate with engineering on system upgrades, modifications, and new installations.
• Ensure automation systems comply with safety regulations and company policies.
• Maintain records of maintenance activities, spare parts, and configurations.
• Provide technical support to operators and junior technicians.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives for equipment reliability.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI

SCADA systems

VFDs

Electrical troubleshooting

Team collaboration

Problem-solving

Education

Technical qualification or apprenticeship in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering Technology

Tools

Siemens S7

Allen-Bradley ControlLogix

FactoryTalk View

WinCC

Profinet

Ethernet/IP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic player in the manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Automation Controls Technician to enhance their operations in Bloemfontein, Free State . This role is critical for the maintenance, troubleshooting, and improvement of sophisticated automated production systems. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), and various industrial sensors and actuators. You will be responsible for ensuring the uptime and efficiency of our client's manufacturing lines, diagnosing complex electrical and control system issues, and implementing effective repair strategies. This hybrid role requires a balance of hands-on work on the factory floor and remote analysis/planning to optimize system performance. You will play a key part in minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity, contributing directly to the company's success. We are looking for a proactive problem-solver with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to operational excellence in the Bloemfontein area.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform preventative maintenance, diagnostics, and repair of industrial automation control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and robotic equipment.
• Troubleshoot complex electrical and mechanical issues affecting production machinery, identifying root causes of failures.
• Program, modify, and test PLC logic and HMI interfaces to optimize machine performance and functionality.
• Install, calibrate, and maintain a variety of industrial sensors, actuators, and control devices.
• Work with VFDs, servo drives, and other motion control systems to ensure smooth operation.
• Collaborate with engineering teams on system upgrades, modifications, and new installations.
• Ensure all automation systems comply with safety regulations and company policies.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, spare parts inventory, and system configurations.
• Provide technical support and guidance to operators and junior technicians.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing equipment reliability and efficiency.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of experience as an Automation Controls Technician or similar role.
• Proficiency in programming and troubleshooting various PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley ControlLogix).
• Experience with HMI software (e.g., FactoryTalk View, WinCC) and SCADA systems.
• Solid understanding of industrial electrical systems, motor controls, and VFDs.
• Knowledge of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Strong diagnostic and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work under pressure.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Relevant technical qualification or apprenticeship in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering Technology.
• Ability to work a rotating shift pattern if required and occasional overtime.
• Familiarity with the industrial landscape in Bloemfontein .

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package up to ZAR.
• Hybrid work model allowing for flexible work arrangements.
• Comprehensive medical aid and hospital plan.
• Annual bonus based on performance.
• Opportunities for advanced technical training and certifications.
• Company-provided safety gear and tools.
• Contribution to a pension fund.
• Paid annual leave.