Senior Control Systems Engineer - Energy Infrastructure

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Advanced training & certifications

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Control Systems Engineer for a client in Klerksdorp, North West. You will design, implement, and maintain robust control systems to ensure safe, reliable power generation and distribution.

The role requires extensive PLC/SCADA experience, DCS handling, and strong cybersecurity practices, with leadership responsibilities and cross‑functional collaboration.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in control systems engineering within energy or power generation.
• Experience programming PLCs and configuring SCADA systems.
• Knowledge of Modbus, Profibus, and DNP3 protocols.
• Understanding of power system operations, protection, and instrumentation.
• Experience with ICS cybersecurity best practices and incident response.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic abilities.
• Willingness to travel within North West province and obtain security clearances.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement control system solutions for power plants and substations.
• Configure, program, and troubleshoot PLCs, DCS, and SCADA systems from vendors.
• Develop and maintain HMI/SCADA applications for operators and data acquisition.
• Perform system integration, testing, and commissioning of new control systems.
• Analyze system performance data and implement efficiency and reliability improvements.
• Lead cybersecurity protocols for critical infrastructure control systems.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
• Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and IT departments; manage vendor relationships.

Skills

Industrial automation

SCADA systems

Process control

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Control Systems Engineering

Tools

Siemens PLC

Rockwell PLC

DCS configuration

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in developing and maintaining critical energy infrastructure, is seeking an experienced Senior Control Systems Engineer to join their dedicated team in Klerksdorp, North West . This role is paramount in designing, implementing, and maintaining sophisticated control systems that ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of power generation and distribution networks. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in industrial automation, PLC/SCADA systems, and advanced process control strategies within the energy sector. You will play a vital role in ensuring the stability and performance of the region's energy supply, working with state-of-the-art technologies. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on vital infrastructure in North West .

Key Responsibilities

Design, develop, and implement robust control system solutions for power plants and substations. Configure, program, and troubleshoot PLCs, DCS, and SCADA systems from various vendors. Develop and maintain HMI/SCADA applications for operator interface and data acquisition. Perform system integration, testing, and commissioning of new control systems. Analyze system performance data and implement optimizations to improve efficiency and reliability. Develop and manage control system cybersecurity protocols to protect critical infrastructure. Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior control systems engineers and technicians. Troubleshoot complex control system issues and develop long-term solutions. Ensure compliance with all relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and company policies. Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical, mechanical, and IT departments. Manage vendor relationships and technical support for control system hardware and software.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a closely related field. A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in control systems engineering, specifically within the energy or power generation industry. Extensive experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell) and SCADA system configuration. Proficiency in industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, DNP3). Strong understanding of power system operations, protection, and instrumentation. Experience with cybersecurity best practices for industrial control systems (ICS). Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills. Strong project management and organizational abilities. Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead technical discussions. Willingness to travel to various operational sites within the North West province as needed. Must be able to obtain relevant security clearances.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement plan, and opportunities for advanced training and professional certifications. You will work with a dedicated team on challenging and impactful projects that are crucial to the energy sector. The role provides significant opportunities for career growth within a stable and respected organization. Join us in ensuring the reliable delivery of energy to the North West region and contribute to national energy security.