Senior Electrical Engineer - Industrial Automation

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Engineer specializing in Industrial Automation for a fully remote role. You will lead design, development, and implementation of advanced automation systems for manufacturing environments, guiding control strategies and ensuring seamless integration of electrical hardware and software.

The ideal candidate has PLC, robotics, SCADA, and industrial networking expertise, plus strong project leadership and excellent communication in a

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Expertise in PLC programming (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Experience with industrial robotics (KUKA, ABB, Fanuc) and machine vision systems.
• Strong knowledge of industrial networks and communication protocols.
• Proven ability to manage automation projects from concept to completion.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
• Superior communication and collaboration skills, adapted for remote work.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of industrial automation and control systems for manufacturing processes.
• Select and specify PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, robotic systems, and other automation components.
• Develop PLC logic and HMI interfaces according to project requirements and best practices.
• Design and implement industrial communication networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet).
• Oversee automation project execution, including vendor management, system integration, and commissioning.
• Conduct system troubleshooting, diagnostics, and root cause analysis for complex automation issues.
• Ensure automation solutions comply with safety standards (e.g., functional safety) and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (mechanical, software, operations) in a virtual setting.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive system documentation, including P&IDs, functional descriptions, and user manuals.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Industrial automation

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA development

Robotics

Project leadership

Remote collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering/Mechatronics

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

KUKA/ABB/Fanuc robotics

Ethernet/IP/Profinet

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leader in advanced manufacturing solutions, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Electrical Engineer with a specialization in Industrial Automation for a fully remote position. This role is critical in driving the design, development, and implementation of sophisticated automation systems that enhance manufacturing efficiency and product quality. You will be responsible for leading automation projects, developing control strategies, and ensuring the seamless integration of electrical and control hardware and software. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of PLCs, robotics, SCADA systems, and industrial networking, coupled with strong project leadership skills and the ability to excel in a remote, collaborative environment. This is an opportunity to shape the future of automated manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of industrial automation and control systems for manufacturing processes.
• Select and specify PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, robotic systems, and other automation components.
• Develop PLC logic and HMI interfaces according to project requirements and best practices.
• Design and implement industrial communication networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet).
• Oversee automation project execution, including vendor management, system integration, and commissioning.
• Conduct system troubleshooting, diagnostics, and root cause analysis for complex automation issues.
• Ensure automation solutions comply with safety standards (e.g., functional safety) and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams (mechanical, software, operations) in a virtual setting.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive system documentation, including P&IDs, functional descriptions, and user manuals.
• Stay current with advancements in automation technology and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Expertise in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., KUKA, ABB, Fanuc) and machine vision systems.
• Strong knowledge of industrial networks and communication protocols.
• Proven ability to manage automation projects from concept to completion.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
• Superior communication and collaboration skills, adapted for remote work.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is an advantage.

Benefits

This fully remote role offers a highly competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the flexibility to work from home. Engage with state-of-the-art automation technologies and contribute to innovative manufacturing solutions. Be part of a dynamic and experienced team focused on driving technological advancement. This position serves clients primarily in the East London, Eastern Cape region, but operates remotely.