Senior Field Service Technician - Industrial Automation

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Bonuses based on performance

Health insurance and retirement plan

Professional development and training

Company vehicle for business use

Supportive and collaborative team

Johannesburg region opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Johannesburg, Gauteng, is seeking a Senior Field Service Technician to diagnose, repair and maintain complex industrial automation systems on client sites across diverse industries. You will troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and drive systems, install and calibrate equipment, provide on-site training, and ensure safety and documentation standards are met while travelling within the region.

A strong customer focus and the ability to work independently under tight deadlines are

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on field service experience with industrial automation systems.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair mechanical, electrical, and software issues on industrial automation equipment.
• Perform preventive maintenance and calibration on schedule.
• Install, commission, and test new equipment for seamless integration.
• Provide on-site technical support and training to client personnel.
• Read and interpret complex manuals, schematics, and diagnostic reports.
• Document all service activities clearly and accurately.
• Adhere to safety regulations and company policies on client sites.
• Collaborate with engineering and sales teams to identify customer needs.
• Manage service inventory and vehicle usage effectively.

Skills

PLC troubleshooting

VFDs

Servo drives

Robotics

Electrical schematics

Communication skills

Travel readiness

Driver's license

Education

National Diploma or higher in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SCADA systems

HMI programming

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of industrial automation solutions, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Field Service Technician to join their dynamic team in **Johannesburg, Gauteng**. This role is crucial for ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of sophisticated machinery and control systems for a diverse clientele across various industries. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical aptitude, exceptional problem-solving skills, and a commitment to delivering outstanding service. You will be instrumental in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining complex equipment, often under tight deadlines, requiring meticulous attention to detail and a proactive approach to service delivery. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and contribute significantly to the operational efficiency of our clients' businesses within the **Johannesburg** region and surrounding areas. This is not just a maintenance job; it's about providing critical technical expertise that keeps industries running.

Key Responsibilities

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair mechanical, electrical, and software issues on a wide range of industrial automation equipment, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and conveyor systems.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance and calibration services according to established schedules and specifications.
• Install, commission, and test new equipment, ensuring seamless integration into existing production lines.
• Provide on-site technical support and training to client personnel, empowering them to operate and maintain equipment effectively.
• Read and interpret complex technical manuals, blueprints, schematics, and diagnostic reports.
• Document all service activities, including repairs, maintenance, and parts used, in a clear and concise manner.
• Adhere to all safety regulations and company policies while on client sites.
• Collaborate with the engineering and sales teams to identify customer needs and provide appropriate solutions.
• Manage service inventory and company vehicle effectively.

Requirements

• A National Diploma or higher in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in field service, specifically with industrial automation systems and equipment.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting PLC logic (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), VFDs, servo drives, and robotic systems.
• Strong understanding of electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and pneumatic/hydraulic systems.
• Excellent diagnostic and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally with clients at all levels.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to travel within the **Johannesburg** region and occasionally beyond as required.
• A valid driver's license is essential.
• Experience with SCADA systems and HMI programming is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plan.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced technical training.
• Company vehicle for business use.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• The chance to work with leading-edge automation technologies in a crucial industry sector within **Johannesburg, Gauteng**.