Senior Industrial Engineer - Automation & Robotics

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Bonus potential

Equity options

Health and wellness package

Retirement fund

Relocation assistance

International training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks a Principal Industrial Engineer specializing in automation and robotics to lead transformative projects across manufacturing operations. You will design, implement, and integrate automated systems, AGVs, and robotic work cells, combining AI and Industry 4.0 concepts to boost throughput and quality.

You will lead cross-functional teams, manage vendors, and ensure safety and regulatory compliance while cultivating a culture of continuous improvement and technical

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Industrial/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering with Automation/Robotics specialization.
• 12+ years of experience in industrial engineering focused on automation and robotics in manufacturing.
• Proven leadership of large-scale automation projects from concept to completion.
• In-depth knowledge of FANUC, KUKA, ABB robot platforms and automation control systems.
• Proficient in simulation software (FlexSim, RobotStudio) and PLC programming.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation and robotics projects across the organization.
• Design and implement robotic cells, AGVs, and advanced manufacturing systems.
• Evaluate technologies and vendors to meet project objectives.
• Develop simulation models to optimize processes before deployment.
• Coordinate with internal teams, suppliers, and partners for project delivery.
• Oversee integration with IT, MES, and ERP systems.
• Develop training programs for operators and maintenance staff.
• Establish metrics and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Stakeholder management

Data-driven decision making

Communication

Education

PhD or MSc in Industrial/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering (Automation/Robotics)

Tools

FlexSim

RobotStudio

PLC programming

Job description

Placements24 in Durban seeks a Principal Industrial Engineer specializing in automation and robotics to lead transformative projects across manufacturing operations. You will design, implement, and integrate automated systems, AGVs, and robotic work cells, combining AI and Industry 4.0 concepts to boost throughput and quality.

You will lead cross-functional teams, manage vendors, and ensure safety and regulatory compliance while cultivating a culture of continuous improvement and technical