Senior Automation Engineer — Hybrid (PLC/Robotics/SCADA)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Salary bonus

Health benefits

Pension plan

Generous PTO

Training & certifications

Challenging projects

Collaborative culture

International assignments

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Industrial Automation Engineer for their Stellenbosch team. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and optimizing automated systems with PLC programming, robotics, SCADA, and motion control.

You will lead complex projects, coordinate with mechanical and electrical engineers, and push for reliable, secure automation solutions while leveraging a hybrid work model in Stellenbosch.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years in industrial automation engineering focusing on PLC, robotics, and SCADA.
• Proven expertise with major PLC platforms (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000).
• Hands-on with industrial robots and integration in complex automation projects.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC systems for complex automation applications.
• Develop and integrate robotic systems including path programming and safety.
• Implement and maintain SCADA for process monitoring and data acquisition.
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Profinet) and cybersecurity.
• Lead automation project teams, manage timelines and budgets.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers for integrated designs.
• Perform root cause analysis and implement effective solutions.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics, diagrams and manuals.
• Stay updated on AI, IIoT and machine vision trends.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and teams.

Skills

PLC programming

Robotics integration

SCADA systems

Motion control

Industrial networks

ICS cybersecurity

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Engineering

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

FANUC/KUKA/ABB robots

HMI/SCADA development tools

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Industrial Automation Engineer for their Stellenbosch team. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and optimizing automated systems with PLC programming, robotics, SCADA, and motion control.

You will lead complex projects, coordinate with mechanical and electrical engineers, and push for reliable, secure automation solutions while leveraging a hybrid work model in Stellenbosch.