Senior Electrical Automation Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and retirement benefits

Performance-based bonuses

State-of-the-art facilities

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Automation Engineer to join a leading advanced manufacturing team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This on-site role focuses on designing, implementing, and optimizing automation systems across production facilities.

You will lead PLC/HMI/SCADA projects, mentor engineers, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve efficiency, reliability, and safety while staying compliant with IEC 61508 and other standards.

Qualifications

• Six or more years of hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency with PLC programming on Siemens or Rockwell platforms.
• Experience with HMI/SCADA software and industrial networking.
• Strong problem-solving and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, programming, and implementation of complex industrial automation systems using PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA.
• Develop electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and wiring diagrams for automated machinery.
• Configure and integrate various industrial control hardware and software platforms.
• Design and implement robust industrial communication networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus).
• Perform system commissioning, troubleshooting, and diagnostics for automation solutions.
• Optimize existing automation systems to improve performance, reduce downtime, and enhance safety.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineering and operations teams to define automation requirements and solutions.
• Develop comprehensive testing procedures and ensure successful system validation.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance personnel and operators.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology and industry best practices.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets for automation initiatives.
• Ensure all automation designs comply with relevant safety standards and regulations (e.g., IEC 61508).

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Industrial networking

Leadership

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell RSLogix/Studio 5000

WinCC

FactoryTalk View

Ignition

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced manufacturing and industrial automation, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Automation Engineer to join their team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This position is based on-site, offering direct engagement with cutting‑edge technology and complex operational environments. You will be instrumental in designing, implementing, and optimizing automation systems for our production facilities, focusing on enhancing efficiency, reliability, and safety. The role demands a deep understanding of PLC programming, HMI development, SCADA systems, and industrial networking. You will lead projects, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to drive innovation in automation solutions. This is a fantastic opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a significant impact and advance their career within a forward‑thinking organization that values technical expertise and operational excellence. The hands‑on nature of this role ensures continuous learning and development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, programming, and implementation of complex industrial automation systems using PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and wiring diagrams for automated machinery.
• Configure and integrate various industrial control hardware and software platforms.
• Design and implement robust industrial communication networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus).
• Perform system commissioning, troubleshooting, and diagnostics for automation solutions.
• Optimize existing automation systems to improve performance, reduce downtime, and enhance safety.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineering and operations teams to define automation requirements and solutions.
• Develop comprehensive testing procedures and ensure successful system validation.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance personnel and operators.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology and industry best practices.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets for automation initiatives.
• Ensure all automation designs comply with relevant safety standards and regulations (e.g., IEC 61508).

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Extensive experience with PLC programming platforms such as Siemens (TIA Portal, Step 7), Rockwell Automation (RSLogix/Studio 5000), or similar.
• Proficiency in HMI/SCADA software (e.g., WinCC, FactoryTalk View, Ignition).
• Strong knowledge of industrial networking protocols and hardware.
• Experience with robotics programming and integration is a significant plus.
• Excellent understanding of electrical control systems design, safety standards, and troubleshooting techniques.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Effective communication and leadership abilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and manage projects independently.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and performance‑based bonuses.
• You will have access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities and technologies.
• Professional development opportunities, including training and certifications, are provided to enhance your skills.
• This role offers the chance to work on diverse and challenging automation projects within a supportive team environment.
• Employees benefit from a strong focus on safety and operational excellence.

Our client is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion, fostering a dynamic and rewarding workplace.