Senior Electrical Controls and Automation Engineer

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement annuity

Performance bonuses

International training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton seeks a Senior Electrical Controls and Automation Engineer to design, develop, and support advanced automation systems for diverse industrial applications.

You will program PLCs/HMI, integrate robotics and vision systems, and develop robust control logic to optimize production lines. The role requires a strong track record, CAD proficiency, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines in a hybrid setup.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in industrial electrical controls and automation engineering.
• Extensive PLC programming experience (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000) and HMI/SCADA development (WinCC, FactoryTalk View).
• Proficiency in CAD schematic design (EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical).
• Experience with robotics (KUKA, ABB) and vision systems is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (Profinet, EtherNet/IP).
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills.
• Strong project management and communication abilities.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment with Sandton team and remote tasks.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical control panels and schematics for automated systems.
• Program and commission PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.
• Integrate robotic systems and vision systems into production lines.
• Develop and implement control logic for complex manufacturing processes.
• Troubleshoot electrical, control, and automation issues on the plant floor.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, software developers, and clients to define system requirements.
• Conduct system testing, validation, and documentation throughout the project lifecycle.
• Provide technical training and support to clients and internal teams.
• Stay updated on automation tech, including AI, IoT, and robotics.
• Manage project tasks and timelines to ensure delivery within scope and budget.

Skills

Problem solving

Analytical thinking

Debugging

Project management

Communication

Hybrid work ability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

WinCC

FactoryTalk View

EPLAN

AutoCAD Electrical

KUKA robotics

ABB robotics

Profinet / EtherNet/IP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of industrial automation solutions and advanced manufacturing technologies, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Controls and Automation Engineer for their operations in Sandton . This role is critical in the design, development, implementation, and support of complex automation systems for diverse industrial applications. You will be responsible for creating innovative control strategies, programming PLCs and HMIs, integrating robotic systems, and ensuring the seamless operation of automated production lines. The position operates on a hybrid model, requiring regular engagement with the Sandton office for team collaboration and critical on-site activities, while also allowing for remote work flexibility. We are looking for a forward-thinking engineer with a proven track record in industrial automation and a passion for driving efficiency and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical control panels and schematics for automated systems.
• Program and commission PLCs (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell Automation), HMIs, and SCADA systems.
• Integrate robotic systems, vision systems, and other automation technologies into production lines.
• Develop and implement control logic for complex manufacturing processes, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical, control, and automation issues on the plant floor.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, software developers, and clients to define system requirements and deliver integrated solutions.
• Conduct system testing, validation, and documentation throughout the project lifecycle.
• Provide technical training and support to clients and internal teams.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology, including AI, IoT, and advanced robotics.
• Manage project tasks and timelines, ensuring successful project delivery within scope and budget.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in industrial electrical controls and automation engineering.
• Extensive experience with PLC programming (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000) and HMI/SCADA development (WinCC, FactoryTalk View).
• Proficiency in designing electrical schematics using CAD software (e.g., EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical).
• Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., KUKA, ABB) and vision systems is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, EtherNet/IP).
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills.
• Strong project management and communication abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, collaborating with the Sandton team and managing remote tasks.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package. This includes medical aid, a retirement annuity, performance bonuses, and opportunities for international training. You will work on cutting-edge automation projects in a dynamic industry, based in Sandton . The hybrid work model provides flexibility. We are committed to employee growth and offer clear career progression pathways. Join a forward-thinking company that is shaping the future of industrial automation.