Senior Industrial Automation Engineer - Process Control Systems

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 850,000 - 1,250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Comprehensive health insurance

Company vehicle & travel allowance

Performance bonuses

Professional growth & training

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Industrial Automation Engineer to lead design, implementation, and commissioning of PLC-based control systems for diverse industrial clients in Mpumalanga, including Nelspruit. You will develop HMI/SCADA solutions and configure industrial networks for reliable operation.

Role requires 5–7 years of hands-on automation experience, proficiency with Siemens TIA Portal and Rockwell Studio 5000, and strong problem-solving and team collaboration skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science or a related field.
• 5–7 years hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in multiple PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA systems (Ignition, Wonderware, WinCC).
• Strong networking knowledge and motor control experience.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission PLC-based control systems for industrial applications.
• Develop HMI screens and SCADA systems for process monitoring and control.
• Configure and troubleshoot Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus networks.
• Gather requirements, define scope, and provide technical solutions for clients.
• Perform on-site testing, validation, and performance optimization; provide technical support.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

SCADA systems

Industrial networking

System commissioning

Project coordination

Client interaction

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

Ignition

Wonderware

WinCC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading force in industrial automation and process control solutions, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Industrial Automation Engineer to join their dynamic team in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga . This role is crucial for designing, implementing, and supporting advanced automation systems for a diverse range of industrial clients. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in PLC programming, HMI development, SCADA systems, and industrial networking. You will be responsible for taking projects from initial concept through to commissioning, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance of automation solutions. This is a hands-on role that requires strong technical acumen, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently. If you are passionate about industrial technology and seeking a challenging role with significant impact in the Mpumalanga region, this opportunity is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission PLC-based control systems for various industrial applications.
• Develop Human-Machine Interface (HMI) screens and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for process monitoring and control.
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus).
• Work with clients to gather requirements, define project scope, and provide technical solutions.
• Conduct system testing, validation, and performance optimization on-site.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for existing automation systems.
• Create and maintain project documentation, including design specifications, program code, network diagrams, and user manuals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and project managers.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in industrial automation technologies and recommend improvements.
• Ensure all work is performed in accordance with safety standards and company best practices, particularly within industrial environments in Nelspruit .

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation engineering.
• Proficiency in programming multiple PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000).
• Experience in developing HMI/SCADA systems (e.g., Ignition, Wonderware, WinCC).
• Solid understanding of industrial networking protocols and hardware.
• Experience with VFDs, servo drives, and motor control applications.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with clients and colleagues.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing project timelines effectively.
• Willingness to travel to client sites as required.
• Previous experience in the Mpumalanga industrial sector is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package based on experience and expertise.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Performance-driven bonuses and incentives.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advanced training.
• Exposure to a wide range of cutting-edge automation projects.
• Company vehicle and travel allowance.
• A collaborative and innovative work culture.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Potential for long-term career development within the company.