Senior Industrial Automation Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonuses

Extensive training and development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Industrial Automation Engineer for an on-site role in Rustenburg, North West. You will design, implement, and maintain PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems to optimize plant operations within a mining environment.

The role requires 8+ years of hands-on automation experience, strong PLC/SCADA skills, and familiarity with Siemens TIA Portal and Rockwell Studio 5000. Travel to other sites may be required; a valid driver's license is needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or related field.
• 8+ years hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering focusing on PLC/SCADA/HMI systems.
• Proficiency in major PLC platforms (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000) and SCADA (Wonderware, Ignition).
• Experience with industrial networking protocols (Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Strong understanding of process control principles and instrumentation.
• Mining or heavy industrial sector experience is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and troubleshoot PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems for industrial automation applications.
• Oversee integration of automation components and ensure interoperability.
• Develop and implement robust control strategies to optimize plant operations.
• Analyze existing systems to identify improvements and upgrade needs.
• Lead commissioning and start-up activities for new automation systems.
• Provide technical guidance to junior engineers and maintenance teams.
• Develop and maintain system documentation including control logic and P&IDs.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards in mining environments.
• Collaborate with operations, mechanical, and electrical teams to meet project goals.
• Respond to faults and emergencies with rapid resolutions.

Skills

PLC/SCADA/HMI systems

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

Industrial networking

Profinet

Ethernet/IP

Modbus

Process control principles

Instrumentation

Problem solving

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering/Mechatronics or related

Tools

Wonderware

Ignition

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading name in mining technology and industrial process optimization, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Industrial Automation Engineer to join their operations based in **Rustenburg**, **North West**. This role is integral to enhancing the efficiency, safety, and productivity of complex industrial automation systems. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance. This is a demanding, on-site position for a dedicated professional who thrives in a fast-paced industrial environment and is committed to driving technological advancements in the mining sector. The successful candidate will play a critical role in shaping the future of automated processes in one of **South Africa's** key economic hubs.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and troubleshoot PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems for industrial automation applications.
• Oversee the integration of various automation components and ensure system interoperability.
• Develop and implement robust control strategies to optimize plant operations and improve efficiency.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of existing systems to identify areas for improvement and implement upgrades.
• Lead commissioning and start-up activities for new automation systems, ensuring adherence to project timelines and specifications.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to junior engineers and maintenance teams.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive system documentation, including control logic, P&IDs, and operational manuals.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety standards and industry regulations, particularly within the mining environment.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, mechanical, and electrical departments, to achieve project objectives.
• Respond to system faults and emergencies, providing rapid and effective resolution.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering, with a strong focus on PLC/SCADA/HMI systems.
• Proficiency in programming major PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000) and SCADA systems (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition).
• Experience with industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus).
• Strong understanding of process control principles and instrumentation.
• Experience within the mining or heavy industrial sector is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to work on-site in **Rustenburg** and potentially travel to other operational sites as required.
• Valid driver's license and ability to pass a medical examination.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, complemented by a comprehensive benefits program including medical aid, a retirement fund, and performance-based bonuses. The role provides significant opportunities for professional growth and development within a technologically advanced organization. Employees benefit from extensive training programs and exposure to cutting-edge automation technologies. Working in **Rustenburg**, **North West**, you will be part of a vital industry contributing to **South Africa's** economy. The company fosters a strong safety culture and encourages innovation. This position is ideal for an experienced engineer seeking a challenging and rewarding career in industrial automation.