Senior Automation Engineer (PLC/SCADA)

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance bonuses

Career development opportunities

Wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer in Benoni to lead the design, implementation and optimization of PLC and SCADA systems at a major food & beverage facility. You will oversee projects, mentor junior engineers and drive efficiency and process control across the plant.

The role requires a bachelor’s in Electrical or Mechatronics, 7+ years in industrial automation, and strong PLC/SCADA expertise.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 7+ years in industrial automation with PLC/SCADA focus.
• Proven expertise in programming major PLC platforms (Siemens, Rockwell) and SCADA/HMI software.
• Strong understanding of industrial networks, instrumentation, and control theory.
• Experience in food & beverage or FMCG sector is advantageous.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with ability to work in a team.
• Project management experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC systems (Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley) and HMI/SCADA applications.
• Develop and implement robust control strategies for manufacturing processes.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation system issues to minimize downtime.
• Lead automation project execution from concept to commissioning.
• Collaborate with process engineers and operations to identify automation opportunities.
• Ensure automation systems comply with safety standards (SIL) and industry best practices.
• Manage vendor relationships for automation hardware and software procurement.
• Provide training to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Maintain detailed documentation including P&IDs and logic diagrams.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA/HMI development

Control theory

Industrial networks

Troubleshooting

Team leadership

Communication skills

Project management

Food & beverage automation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens S7

Allen-Bradley (Rockwell)

SIMATIC STEP 7 / RSLogix

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the food and beverage manufacturing industry, requires a seasoned Senior Automation Engineer to oversee the design, implementation, and optimization of PLC and SCADA systems at their facility in Benoni, Gauteng . This role is critical for ensuring efficient, safe, and reliable plant operations through advanced automation solutions. You will lead automation projects, provide technical expertise, and mentor junior engineers. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced automation professional to make a significant impact on production efficiency and process control within a leading manufacturing environment in Benoni .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC systems (e.g., Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley) and HMI/SCADA applications.
• Develop and implement robust control strategies for manufacturing processes.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation system issues to minimize production downtime.
• Lead automation project execution, from concept and specification to final commissioning.
• Collaborate with process engineers and operations teams to identify automation opportunities and improvements.
• Ensure automation systems comply with safety standards (e.g., SIL) and industry best practices.
• Manage vendor relationships for automation hardware and software procurement.
• Provide technical guidance and training to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Maintain detailed documentation of automation systems, including P&IDs, logic diagrams, and user manuals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in industrial automation, with a strong focus on PLC and SCADA systems.
• Proven expertise in programming major PLC platforms (Siemens, Rockwell) and SCADA/HMI software packages.
• Solid understanding of industrial networks, instrumentation, and control theory.
• Experience in the food and beverage or FMCG sector is highly advantageous.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Project management experience is a plus.
• Readiness to work in a plant environment in Benoni .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive benefits including medical aid and provident fund, and significant opportunities for career advancement. You will be instrumental in driving technological innovation within a key production facility in Gauteng . The company invests in its employees through continuous training and development programs. This role offers the chance to work with modern automation technologies and contribute directly to operational excellence. Additional benefits include performance bonuses, generous leave, and access to employee wellness programs. Join a company that values expertise and provides a stable and rewarding career path in Benoni .