Senior Control Systems Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Training & certifications

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Control Systems Engineer for a fully remote, globally distributed team. You will design, implement, and optimize advanced control systems for complex industrial processes, leading projects across sectors and collaborating with stakeholders worldwide.

The role requires 8+ years in industrial automation, strong PLC/HMI skills (Siemens and Rockwell), and leadership capabilities. Remote-first environment offers flexible work arrangements, competitive pay, and ongoing

Qualifications

• Bachelor level degree in a relevant engineering field; Master’s preferred.
• Minimum 8 years in industrial control systems engineering.
• Proven leadership in designing and implementing complex automation projects.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement control system strategies using PLCs, DCS, and SCADA.
• Program and configure Siemens TIA Portal and Rockwell Logix Designer controllers.
• Develop and maintain HMI/SCADA applications for operators and data visualization.
• Specify and integrate instrumentation, sensors, actuators, and field devices.
• Design industrial networks and protocols (Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus).
• Perform testing, commissioning, and validation for reliability.
• Troubleshoot complex issues, provide remote client support.
• Create detailed design specifications and user manuals.
• Mentor junior engineers and promote best practices.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA development

Project leadership

Remote collaboration

Industrial cybersecurity

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Chemical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Logix Designer

SCADA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in industrial automation solutions, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Control Systems Engineer to join their innovative, fully remote team. This role is critical for designing, implementing, and optimizing advanced control systems for complex industrial processes across various sectors. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and industrial communication protocols. You will lead the technical direction for control system projects, ensuring seamless integration, enhanced efficiency, and superior performance of automated industrial operations. This remote-first position demands excellent problem-solving abilities, strong collaborative skills, and the capacity to deliver sophisticated automation solutions from anywhere, supporting global manufacturing excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement control system strategies for industrial processes using PLCs, DCS, and SCADA systems.
• Program and configure controllers from major vendors such as Siemens (TIA Portal), Rockwell Automation (Logix Designer), and others.
• Develop and maintain HMI/SCADA applications for operator interfaces, data acquisition, and process visualization.
• Specify and integrate instrumentation, sensors, actuators, and other field devices.
• Design and implement industrial networks and communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, EtherNet/IP, Modbus).
• Conduct system testing, commissioning, and validation to ensure operational integrity and performance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex control system issues, providing remote support to clients and field teams.
• Develop comprehensive documentation, including functional design specifications, logic diagrams, and user manuals.
• Mentor and guide junior control systems engineers, promoting best practices in design and implementation.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in automation technology, control theory, and industrial cybersecurity.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in industrial control systems engineering.
• Proven leadership experience in designing and implementing complex automation projects.
• Extensive experience with PLC programming (Siemens, Rockwell preferred) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Strong knowledge of industrial communication protocols and network architectures.
• Experience with DCS platforms is a significant advantage.
• Proficiency in control system troubleshooting and diagnostics.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, essential for effective remote collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple project priorities in a remote environment.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to work from any location while contributing to impactful global projects.
• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, excellent health benefits, and a robust retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for continuous professional growth through advanced training, certifications, and exposure to diverse automation challenges are abundant.
• You will join a company at the forefront of industrial innovation, working with cutting-edge technologies.
• Access to industry-leading software and simulation tools is provided.
• The company fosters a collaborative culture that values expertise, innovation, and a strong commitment to employee well‑being, all within a remote work framework.