Senior Control Systems Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work flexibility

Home office stipend

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development budget

International project exposure

Team events

Job summary

Placements24 is searching for a Senior Control Systems Engineer to join a global automation team in a fully remote SA role. You will design, implement, and optimize PLC/DCS logic, develop efficient HMI screens, configure SCADA, and lead project testing and commissioning from your home office.

You will collaborate with multinational clients, ensure safety and standards compliance, and mentor junior engineers while expanding your expertise in modern automation technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in industrial control systems engineering.
• Proficiency with major PLC platforms (Siemens, Rockwell, Schneider Electric).
• Experience in HMI/SCADA software development (FactoryTalk View, WinCC, Ignition).
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (Modbus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience with process instrumentation and control loops.
• Independent and remote-ready with strong problem-solving and client-facing skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement PLC/DCS logic for industrial processes.
• Create user-friendly HMI screens and interfaces.
• Configure and program SCADA systems and perform testing.
• Conduct system integration, testing, and commissioning.
• Troubleshoot remote and on-site control issues as needed.
• Collaborate with clients to capture requirements and provide solutions.
• Mentor junior engineers and stay current with automation technologies.

Skills

PLC platforms

HMI/SCADA

Industrial protocols

VFDs & motor control

Problem solving

Remote work

Client-facing

Education

Bachelors in Electrical/Mechatronics

Tools

FactoryTalk View

WinCC

Ignition

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a global leader in industrial automation and process control, seeking an experienced Senior Control Systems Engineer to join their pioneering team. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to work from anywhere within South Africa. You will be instrumental in the design, implementation, and optimization of sophisticated control systems for a wide range of industrial clients. Your expertise will span across PLC programming, HMI development, SCADA systems, and advanced process control strategies. This role demands a proactive, self-motivated individual who excels in a remote working environment and possesses a deep understanding of automation principles. You will collaborate with clients and project teams worldwide, delivering innovative and reliable automation solutions. We are committed to attracting top talent and providing them with challenging projects and opportunities for professional growth. This is your chance to shape the future of industrial automation from the comfort of your home office.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement PLC/DCS logic and control strategies for industrial processes.
• Develop user-friendly and efficient Human-Machine Interface (HMI) screens.
• Configure and program Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems.
• Perform system integration, testing, and commissioning of control systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex control system issues, both remotely and potentially on-site.
• Collaborate with clients to gather requirements and provide technical solutions.
• Ensure control system designs comply with industry standards and safety regulations.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, including functional design specifications and user manuals.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.
• Stay abreast of new automation technologies and industry best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in industrial control systems engineering.
• Proficiency with major PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell, Schneider Electric).
• Experience in HMI/SCADA software development (e.g., FactoryTalk View, WinCC, Ignition).
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience with process instrumentation and control loops.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and diagnostic skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote setting.
• Strong communication and client-facing skills.
• Experience with variable frequency drives (VFDs) and motor control.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan.
• Significant paid time off and flexible holiday options.
• Full remote work flexibility with home office stipend.
• Opportunities for international project involvement.
• Continuous professional development and training budgets.
• Access to cutting-edge automation technologies.
• Collaborative and supportive remote team culture.
• Regular virtual team events and engagement activities.