Senior Automation Technician

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle

Fuel allowance

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Training & certifications

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly skilled Senior Automation Technician to join Pretoria's advanced manufacturing and industrial maintenance team. You will install, program, maintain, and troubleshoot automated systems including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, and robotics, ensuring safety and efficiency.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in industrial automation, strong PLC/HMI/SCADA experience, robotics, and electrical knowledge, with a proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration with engineers.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years in industrial automation and control systems.
• Proficiency in PLC programming and HMI/SCADA software.
• Experience with robotics such as FANUC or KUKA.
• Strong reading of electrical schematics, pneumatics and hydraulics.
• Excellent troubleshooting and collaboration with engineering teams.
• Ability to read manuals, blueprints, and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Install, program, troubleshoot, and maintain automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, robotics).
• Develop and implement modifications to improve efficiency and safety.
• Perform routine maintenance and diagnostics on automated machinery.
• Diagnose and resolve complex automation issues.
• Collaborate with engineering to design and commission new processes.
• Ensure installations comply with safety standards and regulations.
• Provide tech support and training to maintenance staff and operators.
• Maintain documentation (backups, diagrams, troubleshooting guides).
• Respond to breakdowns to minimize downtime.
• Stay updated on latest automation technologies and upgrades.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Robotics programming

Electrical schematics

Troubleshooting

Reading manuals/blueprints

Communication & teamwork

Education

Technical qualification in automation or electrical engineering

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

FANUC robotics

KUKA robotics

HMI/SCADA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Automation Technician to join their advanced manufacturing and industrial maintenance team in Pretoria, Gauteng . This role is critical in ensuring the seamless operation and continuous improvement of automated systems and machinery within their state-of-the-art facilities. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of industrial automation, PLC programming, robotics, and control systems. You will be responsible for the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of complex automated processes. This position requires a proactive, analytical approach to problem-solving and a strong commitment to safety and efficiency. You will play a key role in maintaining our client's competitive edge through technological excellence in Pretoria .

Key Responsibilities

• Install , program, troubleshoot, and maintain industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and robotic equipment.
• Develop and implement modifications to existing automation systems to improve efficiency, reliability, and safety.
• Perform routine maintenance and diagnostic checks on automated machinery and control systems.
• Diagnose and resolve complex technical issues related to automation hardware and software.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to design, test, and commission new automated processes and equipment.
• Ensure all automation installations and modifications comply with industry standards and safety regulations.
• Provide technical support and training to other maintenance staff and operators.
• Maintain detailed documentation of automation systems, including program backups, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting guides.
• Respond promptly to automation-related breakdowns and ensure minimal production downtime.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology and propose relevant upgrades.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in industrial automation and control systems.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI/SCADA software.
• Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., FANUC, KUKA) and their programming.
• Strong understanding of electrical schematics, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Excellent troubleshooting skills for diagnosing complex automation issues.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, blueprints, and engineering specifications.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Relevant technical qualification in automation, electrical engineering, or a related field.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes and systems in Pretoria .
• Commitment to safety protocols and a proactive approach to risk management.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and a retirement savings plan. Opportunities for advanced training in specialized automation technologies and certifications will be provided, fostering significant career growth. Employees have access to a company vehicle and fuel allowance for site visits and off-site support. Our client prides itself on a stimulating work environment that encourages innovation and continuous improvement. This role is based in the industrial hub of Pretoria, Gauteng , offering exposure to cutting-edge technology. Generous leave policy and performance-based incentives are also part of the package. Join a forward-thinking company that values its employees' contributions and professional development.