Senior Industrial Automation Specialist

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks a Senior Industrial Automation Specialist to design, implement, and maintain advanced automation systems in manufacturing and process environments. You will optimize production, improve reliability and ensure safe operation of automated machinery on-site in Klerksdorp.

The role requires hands-on expertise with PLCs (Rockwell/Siemens), SCADA, robotics and control strategies, with strong collaboration across engineering and operations to identify opportunities

Qualifications

• Requires hands-on experience with PLC programming (Rockwell/Siemens).
• Experience in HMI development and SCADA system integration.
• Strong understanding of electrical principles, motor control and sensors.
• Proficient in reading electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex automation issues.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, SCADA).
• Implement and maintain robotic systems and automated machinery for uptime and performance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation hardware/software/control logic issues.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations to identify improvements and opportunities.
• Develop and maintain documentation including P&IDs and schematics.
• Ensure safety regulations and industry standards are followed in design and implementation.
• Provide training and technical support to plant personnel on automation.
• Stay updated with emerging automation technologies and assess applicability.
• Conduct performance analyses and implement optimization strategies.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

SCADA systems

Robotics programming

Electrical principles

Schematic reading

Problem-solving

Team collaboration

Education

Engineering degree (Electrical/Mechatronics)

Tools

Rockwell PLC

Siemens PLC

SCADA software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Industrial Automation Specialist to join their team in Klerksdorp, North West . This critical role focuses on the design, implementation, and maintenance of advanced automation systems within manufacturing and process industries. You will be instrumental in optimizing production efficiency, enhancing system reliability, and ensuring the safe operation of automated machinery. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, and process control strategies. You will work closely with engineering and operations teams to identify automation opportunities, develop solutions, and provide ongoing technical support. This is an on-site position requiring a dedicated professional committed to driving innovation and operational excellence in the industrial sector. If you are passionate about automation and possess a strong track record in industrial control systems, this is an excellent opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and commission industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.
• Implement and maintain robotic systems and automated machinery, ensuring optimal performance and uptime.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex issues related to automation hardware, software, and control logic.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify process improvements and automation opportunities.
• Develop and maintain detailed documentation for automation systems, including P&IDs, electrical schematics, and logic diagrams.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and industry standards in automation design and implementation.
• Provide technical support and training to plant personnel on automation systems.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and recommend their adoption where beneficial.
• Conduct performance analysis of automated systems and implement optimization strategies.

Requirements

• Proven experience as an Industrial Automation Specialist, Controls Engineer, or similar role.
• In-depth knowledge of PLC programming (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens), HMI development, and SCADA systems.
• Experience with industrial robotics programming and integration.
• Strong understanding of electrical principles, motor control, and sensor technologies.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• A relevant engineering degree or diploma in Electrical, Mechanical, or Mechatronics Engineering.
• Willingness to work on-site in Klerksdorp and potentially travel for project-related activities.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and significant opportunities for professional growth and development. You will work with state-of-the-art technology in a dynamic industrial environment. The role provides the chance to make a tangible impact on manufacturing processes and contribute to operational excellence. Join a team that values expertise, innovation, and a commitment to safety and efficiency in industrial automation.