Senior Automation Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance-based incentives

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer in Klerksdorp, North West, to lead the design, implementation, and optimization of automated production systems in a high-volume manufacturing environment.

You will direct PLC programming, HMI/SCADA development, and robotics integration while mentoring junior engineers and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive efficiency and quality improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• 7+ years hands-on experience in industrial automation with emphasis on PLC programming (Siemens/Allen-Bradley).
• Proven experience with HMI/SCADA development and integration.
• Proficiency in robotics programming and integration (ABB/KUKA/Fanuc).
• Strong understanding of industrial networking, Profinet/EtherNet/IP, and cybersecurity.
• Demonstrated leadership and project management capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of automation solutions for manufacturing processes (PLC, HMI, SCADA).
• Select automation hardware/software components for optimal performance.
• Develop and test complex control logic for automated machinery.
• Troubleshoot intricate automation issues and identify root causes.
• Oversee installation, commissioning, and integration of new automation equipment.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, and quality assurance teams.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
• Ensure projects meet industry standards, safety regs, and company best practices.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Robotics programming

Industrial networking

Cybersecurity basics

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Eng.

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

ABB robotics

KUKA robotics

Fanuc robotics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturing company in Klerksdorp, North West , is seeking an experienced Senior Automation Engineer to lead the design, implementation, and optimization of their automated production systems. This role is instrumental in driving efficiency, improving quality, and ensuring the smooth operation of state-of-the-art manufacturing processes. You will be responsible for selecting and integrating automation technologies, developing control logic, troubleshooting complex issues, and mentoring junior engineers. This is a challenging and rewarding position for an individual with a strong track record in industrial automation and a passion for technological advancement. The ideal candidate will be deeply familiar with PLC programming, robotics, and process control systems within the Klerksdorp industrial landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of automation solutions for manufacturing processes, including PLC programming, HMI development, and SCADA systems.
• Select appropriate automation hardware and software components, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
• Develop and test complex control logic and algorithms to ensure efficient and reliable operation of automated machinery.
• Troubleshoot and resolve intricate technical issues related to automation systems, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and integration of new automation equipment and systems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, maintenance, and quality assurance, to achieve operational goals.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior automation engineers and technicians.
• Ensure all automation projects adhere to industry standards, safety regulations, and company best practices in North West .
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and industry trends, proposing innovative solutions to enhance productivity and reduce costs.
• Manage documentation, including system designs, programming code, and operational manuals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation engineering, with a significant focus on PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen‑Bradley).
• Proven experience with HMI/SCADA system development and integration.
• Proficiency in robotics programming and integration (e.g., ABB, KUKA, Fanuc).
• Strong understanding of industrial networking, communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, EtherNet/IP), and cybersecurity.
• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills, with the ability to diagnose complex automation issues.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience mentoring technical teams.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, essential for collaborating within the Klerksdorp facility.
• Experience in a high‑volume manufacturing environment is highly preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, a provident fund, and performance‑based incentives.
• Opportunities for advanced training, professional development, and career progression are actively supported.

You will have access to the latest automation technologies and work on challenging, cutting‑edge projects. We foster a collaborative and innovative work environment dedicated to continuous improvement. Join a leading organization in the North West province and shape the future of manufacturing automation.