Senior Industrial Automation Technician

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Pension fund

Annual bonus

Job summary

Placements24 client, a leading innovator in manufacturing technology, seeks a Senior Industrial Automation Technician to join their Centurion facility. You will install, program, maintain, and troubleshoot advanced automation equipment, including PLCs, robotics, and HMIs, to keep production running at peak efficiency.

The role requires deep technical expertise, strong problem-solving, and the ability to work independently on complex projects.

Qualifications

• 6+ years in industrial automation (installation, maintenance, troubleshooting).
• Experience with Siemens, Allen-Bradley or Mitsubishi PLCs.
• Robotics experience with KUKA or FANUC.
• Ability to read schematics and electrical drawings.
• Willingness to travel within Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Install and commission automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, robotics).
• Program and troubleshoot control systems (Ladder Logic, Structured Text).
• Maintain and calibrate automated machinery to prevent breakdowns.
• Diagnose hardware/software issues and read schematics.
• Upgrade systems for efficiency; collaborate with engineering.
• Ensure safety standards compliance; train production staff.
• Document configurations and maintenance activities.

Skills

Siemens PLCs

Allen-Bradley PLCs

Mitsubishi PLCs

Robotics (KUKA)

Robotics (FANUC)

HMI dev

Schematic reading

Profinet/Ethernet/IP

Education

Electrical Engineering/Mechatronics qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in manufacturing technology, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Industrial Automation Technician to join their cutting-edge facility in Centurion, Gauteng. This role is central to maintaining and enhancing the sophisticated automation systems that drive production efficiency. You will be responsible for the installation, programming, maintenance, and troubleshooting of complex industrial automation equipment, including PLCs, robotics, and HMI systems. The ideal candidate possesses a deep technical expertise, strong analytical skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. This is an exceptional opportunity to work with advanced technologies, contribute to process optimization, and advance your career in a dynamic industrial setting in Centurion.

Key Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and commission industrial automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and robotic cells.
• Program and troubleshoot control systems using various PLC languages (e.g., Ladder Logic, Structured Text).
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration on automated machinery to ensure optimal performance and prevent breakdowns.
• Diagnose and resolve complex technical issues with automation hardware and software.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, and mechanical drawings.
• Implement system upgrades and modifications to improve efficiency and functionality.
• Collaborate with engineering teams on new system designs and process improvements.
• Ensure all automation installations and modifications comply with safety standards and company protocols.
• Provide technical training and support to production staff on automated systems.
• Maintain accurate documentation of all automation systems, configurations, and maintenance activities.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in industrial automation, with a focus on installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Proven expertise with PLCs from major manufacturers (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi).
• Experience with industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Proficiency in reading electrical schematics and mechanical diagrams.
• Strong understanding of robotics (e.g., KUKA, FANUC) and HMI development.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage complex projects.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Relevant technical qualification in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel occasionally within Gauteng.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, annual bonuses, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid, life insurance, and a pension fund. We provide significant opportunities for professional development, including specialized training in the latest automation technologies and certifications. This role offers the chance to work on state-of-the-art automation projects and grow within a leading industrial company. A supportive team environment and clear career progression paths are guaranteed.