Senior Industrial Automation Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary bonus

Health benefits

Pension plan

Generous PTO

Training & certifications

Challenging projects

Collaborative culture

International assignments

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Industrial Automation Engineer for their Stellenbosch team. The role focuses on designing, implementing, and optimizing automated systems with PLC programming, robotics, SCADA, and motion control.

You will lead complex projects, coordinate with mechanical and electrical engineers, and push for reliable, secure automation solutions while leveraging a hybrid work model in Stellenbosch.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years in industrial automation engineering focusing on PLC, robotics, and SCADA.
• Proven expertise with major PLC platforms (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000).
• Hands-on with industrial robots and integration in complex automation projects.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC systems for complex automation applications.
• Develop and integrate robotic systems including path programming and safety.
• Implement and maintain SCADA for process monitoring and data acquisition.
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Profinet) and cybersecurity.
• Lead automation project teams, manage timelines and budgets.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers for integrated designs.
• Perform root cause analysis and implement effective solutions.
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics, diagrams and manuals.
• Stay updated on AI, IIoT and machine vision trends.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and teams.

Skills

PLC programming

Robotics integration

SCADA systems

Motion control

Industrial networks

ICS cybersecurity

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Engineering

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

FANUC/KUKA/ABB robots

HMI/SCADA development tools

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading innovator in automated manufacturing solutions, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Industrial Automation Engineer to join their team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This role is pivotal in the design, development, implementation, and optimization of automated systems and control solutions for various industrial applications. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with PLC programming, robotics, SCADA systems, and motion control, coupled with a strong understanding of industrial networks and cybersecurity. You will be responsible for leading complex automation projects, ensuring seamless integration of new technologies, and driving efficiency and reliability in manufacturing processes. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate engineer to make a significant impact within the technologically advanced landscape of the Western Cape , contributing to cutting-edge automation projects. The hybrid model allows for focused development time and essential on-site collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) for complex industrial automation applications.
• Develop and integrate robotic systems, including path programming, safety integration, and troubleshooting.
• Implement and maintain SCADA systems for process monitoring, control, and data acquisition.
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet) and ensure system cybersecurity.
• Lead automation project teams, managing timelines, budgets, and technical specifications.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure cohesive system design and integration.
• Perform root cause analysis for automation-related issues and implement effective solutions.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation, including electrical schematics, logic diagrams, and user manuals.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology, including AI, IIoT, and machine vision.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and internal teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in industrial automation engineering, with a focus on PLC programming, robotics, and SCADA systems.
• Proven expertise in programming major PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000).
• Hands-on experience with industrial robots (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB) and their integration.
• Strong knowledge of industrial communication protocols and network infrastructure.
• Experience with HMI/SCADA development and implementation.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong project management capabilities and the ability to lead technical teams.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for client and team interaction.
• Willingness to work in a Hybrid capacity, balancing remote work with on-site requirements in Stellenbosch .
• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles for industrial control systems is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance bonus.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Generous paid time off.
• Opportunities for advanced training and certifications in automation technologies.
• Exposure to innovative and challenging projects.
• Collaborative and growth-oriented work environment.
• Potential for international assignments.