Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Process Automation

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus opportunities

Medical insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Remote engineering tools

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer specializing in Process Automation to join a remote-first manufacturing firm. You will design, implement, and maintain automation systems across global operations, driving efficiency, quality, and safety from anywhere.

The role requires 8+ years in process automation, PLC/HMI/SCADA expertise (Siemens/Allen-Bradley), robotics, and strong problem-solving.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in manufacturing process automation and robotics.
• Strong PLC programming and HMI/SCADA development experience.
• Remote collaboration and multi-project management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated manufacturing systems including PLCs, SCADA, and HMI.
• Optimize processes to improve throughput and product quality.
• Troubleshoot automation issues to minimize downtime.
• Lead automation upgrade projects and system integration.
• Create and maintain technical documentation and procedures.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA

Industrial networking

Robotics

Remote collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Mechatronics

Master's degree

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

HMI/SCADA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering manufacturing firm committed to technological advancement, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Manufacturing Engineer specializing in Process Automation to join their fully remote team. This role is pivotal in driving the integration and optimization of automated systems across our manufacturing operations. You will design, implement, and maintain cutting-edge automation solutions that enhance efficiency, improve product quality, and ensure operational safety. As a remote-first organization, we empower our engineers with the tools and autonomy to innovate and lead from anywhere. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the forefront of manufacturing technology, working on complex challenges and shaping the future of our automated production environment. We are looking for a visionary engineer who thrives in a dynamic, distributed setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated manufacturing systems, including robotics, PLCs, SCADA, and HMI systems.
• Optimize existing automated processes to improve throughput, reduce cycle times, and enhance product quality.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation and control system issues to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, operations, R&D) to define automation requirements and project scopes.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including P&IDs, control logic, and operating procedures.
• Lead projects related to automation upgrades, technology selection, and system integration.
• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and best practices, identifying opportunities for implementation.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in manufacturing process automation, control systems engineering, and robotics.
• Proven expertise in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMI/SCADA development, and industrial networking.
• Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical system design related to automation.
• Experience with simulation software and data analysis for process optimization.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills, effective in a remote collaboration environment.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and work independently.
• Must hold the legal right to work remotely from South Africa .

Benefits

• Exceptional salary package with performance-related bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous retirement fund contributions and long-term savings plans.
• Significant investment in professional development, training, and advanced certifications.
• Access to state-of-the-art virtual engineering tools and platforms.
• A culture that champions innovation, autonomy, and remote work excellence.
• Opportunities to lead transformative automation projects globally.