Senior Electrical Technician (Industrial Automation)

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 620,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, seeks a Senior Electrical Technician with a specialization in Industrial Automation to join our manufacturing client. You will install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair complex automated systems and electrical infrastructure to keep production lines running efficiently.

The role requires hands-on PLC programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley), robotics, HMIs and industrial networks, with strong diagnostic skills and a safety-focused approach.

Qualifications

• Technical qualification or trade certification in Electrical Engineering Technology, Industrial Electronics, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience as an Electrical Technician focusing on industrial automation.
• Strong PLC experience with Siemens and Allen-Bradley and fault troubleshooting.
• Ability to read electrical schematics and perform preventive maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair automated machinery, control systems, and electrical equipment.
• Work with PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, and industrial networks.
• Diagnose faults, identify root causes, and implement repairs.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance on electrical and automated equipment.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics and diagrams.
• Collaborate with engineering teams on system upgrades and new installations.
• Ensure safety, codes, and company policies are followed.
• Assist in commissioning of new equipment and production lines.
• Maintain logs of maintenance and performance.
• Provide guidance to junior technicians.

Skills

PLC programming

Industrial automation

Electrical troubleshooting

HMI and networks

Diagnostic skills

Education

Technical qualification or trade certification in Electrical Engineering Technology or Industrial Electronics

Tools

Siemens PLCs

Allen-Bradley PLCs

HMI software

Industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Profibus)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturing company known for its innovative production processes, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Electrical Technician with a specialization in Industrial Automation to join their team in George, Western Cape . This critical role involves the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of complex automated systems and electrical infrastructure within the manufacturing plant. The ideal candidate will have a profound understanding of PLCs, VFDs, robotics, and other automation technologies, coupled with exceptional diagnostic and problem-solving skills. You will play a key part in ensuring the continuous and efficient operation of our automated production lines, minimizing downtime and optimizing performance in the George facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair automated machinery, control systems, and electrical equipment.
• Work with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and industrial networks.
• Diagnose electrical and automation system faults, identify root causes, and implement timely and effective repairs.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance on electrical and automated equipment to ensure optimal performance and prevent failures.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, control diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to implement system upgrades, modifications, and new installations.
• Ensure all work adheres to strict safety standards, electrical codes, and company policies.
• Assist in the commissioning of new equipment and production lines.
• Maintain accurate logs of maintenance, repairs, and system performance.
• Provide technical support and guidance to less experienced technicians.

Requirements

• Technical qualification or trade certification in Electrical Engineering Technology, Industrial Electronics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience as an Electrical Technician focusing on industrial automation.
• Proven hands-on experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with robotics, HMI software, and various industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Strong understanding of electrical theory, control systems, and instrumentation.
• Ability to read and interpret complex electrical and automation schematics.
• Excellent diagnostic and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to safety and adherence to regulations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with flexibility in working hours when required.
• Valid driver's license.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to George, Western Cape .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package with opportunities for overtime pay and performance-based bonuses.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a retirement savings plan, and paid time off.
• The company invests in its employees through ongoing training and development in the latest automation technologies.
• Our client provides a safe and professional working environment, with access to modern tools and equipment.
• Join a dynamic team in George and contribute to the technological advancement of the manufacturing sector.