Senior Automation Engineer - Remote

Placements24; Gqeberha; Híbrido; ZAR 900.000 - 1.500.000; Tempo integral

Benefícios oferecidos por esta vaga

Fully remote work

Professional development

Global collaboration

Resumo da vaga

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer for a fully remote role based anywhere in South Africa. You will design, develop, and implement advanced automation systems, with strong PLC, SCADA, and HMI expertise, driving efficiency and innovation across industrial processes.

You will lead lifecycle from concept to commissioning, mentor juniors, liaise with clients, and stay ahead on automation standards.

Qualificações

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or related discipline.
• 7+ years hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proven PLC programming experience (Siemens, Rockwell/AB, Mitsubishi).
• Strong SCADA design, implementation, and HMI development experience.
• Familiarity with Python or VBA scripting for automation tasks.

Responsabilidades

• Design, program, and commission PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems for industrial applications.
• Develop automation strategies to improve process efficiency, quality, and safety.
• Troubleshoot and debug automation systems; resolve complex technical issues.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software teams across projects.
• Create and maintain detailed design specs, code, and user manuals.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safety controls in automation systems.
• Provide remote technical support and client training.
• Mentor junior automation engineers and contribute to technical strategy.

Conhecimentos

PLC programming

SCADA design

HMI development

Python scripting

Remote work communication

Formação

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Ferramentas

Siemens PLC

Rockwell/Allen-Bradley PLC

Mitsubishi PLC

Descrição da vaga

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced manufacturing and process control, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Automation Engineer for a fully remote position. Based anywhere in South Africa, you will be at the forefront of designing, developing, and implementing sophisticated automation systems that drive efficiency and innovation in industrial processes. This role requires extensive experience with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs). You will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of automation projects, from initial concept and design to programming, testing, commissioning, and ongoing support. As a Senior Engineer, you will also mentor junior team members, contribute to strategic technical decisions, and liaise with clients to understand their automation needs. The ideal candidate is a meticulous problem-solver, adept at optimising complex systems, and excels in a remote work environment, demonstrating strong self-discipline and communication skills. Your expertise will be crucial in maintaining and enhancing the operational capabilities of our client's cutting‑edge facilities. This role offers the opportunity to work on diverse and challenging projects, contributing directly to the advancement of industrial automation solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems for various industrial applications.
• Develop and implement automation strategies to improve process efficiency, product quality, and safety.
• Perform troubleshooting and debugging of automation systems, identifying and resolving complex technical issues.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional engineering teams (mechanical, electrical, software) throughout project lifecycles.
• Create and maintain detailed technical documentation, including design specifications, programming code, and user manuals.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safety controls within automation systems.
• Provide remote technical support and training to clients and on‑site personnel.
• Mentor and guide junior automation engineers, fostering technical growth within the team.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology, robotics, and industrial control systems.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of automation standards and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proven expertise in programming various PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell/Allen‑Bradley, Mitsubishi).
• Strong experience with SCADA system design and implementation, and HMI development.
• Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Python, VBA) for automation tasks is a plus.
• Solid understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus).
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and work effectively in a remote team environment.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and client‑facing skills.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Highly attractive salary and benefits package.
• Fully remote work opportunity, offering flexibility and work‑life integration.
• Work on cutting‑edge automation projects with a global industry leader.
• Extensive opportunities for professional development and learning new technologies.
• Contribute to innovative solutions that shape the future of manufacturing.
• Be part of a supportive, high‑performing, and globally distributed team.