About the Role
Our client, a major player in the industrial processing sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Instrumentation Engineer to join their operations team in Polokwane, Limpopo. This critical role involves the design, implementation, calibration, and maintenance of sophisticated instrumentation and control systems essential for process optimization, safety, and quality control. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of various instrumentation technologies, control loops, and safety instrumented systems (SIS). This is a full-time, on-site position requiring hands-on involvement in a demanding industrial environment. You will be instrumental in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of our complex processing plants in Polokwane.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, specify, and implement instrumentation and control systems, including transmitters, control valves, sensors, and analyzers.
- Develop and maintain P&ID (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams), loop diagrams, and cause & effect matrices.
- Configure and troubleshoot Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) related to instrumentation.
- Develop and execute calibration procedures and maintenance strategies for critical instrumentation.
- Ensure compliance with industry standards (e.g., ISA, IEC) and safety regulations, particularly for Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS).
- Conduct root cause analysis for instrumentation failures and implement corrective and preventative actions.
- Collaborate with process engineers, mechanical engineers, and operations personnel to optimize system performance.
- Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior instrumentation engineers and technicians.
- Manage instrumentation projects, including scope definition, vendor selection, and installation oversight.
- Stay updated on emerging trends and technologies in process instrumentation and control.
- Develop and deliver training programs for operations and maintenance staff on instrumentation best practices.
- Ensure accurate documentation and record-keeping for all instrumentation assets and activities.
Requirements
- A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
- A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in instrumentation engineering within an industrial process environment (e.g., mining, chemical, manufacturing).
- In-depth knowledge of process control principles, instrumentation hardware (sensors, transmitters, valves), and control loops.
- Experience with DCS/PLC configuration and troubleshooting, particularly in industrial settings.
- Strong understanding of Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) and SIL (Safety Integrity Level) requirements.
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting P&IDs, electrical schematics, and technical specifications.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
- Strong communication and leadership abilities, with experience mentoring technical staff.
- Ability to work effectively in a demanding, hands-on industrial environment.
- Must be willing to work on-site at the facility in Polokwane and potentially travel to other sites as needed.
- A commitment to upholding high safety standards and operational excellence.
Benefits
Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits program including medical aid, retirement fund, and other allowances. Employees benefit from working with advanced industrial technologies, significant opportunities for professional growth and development, and the chance to make a substantial impact on operational efficiency and safety. This role offers a stable and rewarding career within a key industrial player in the Limpopo region, based in Polokwane.