Senior Remote Industrial Automation Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Remote work allowance

Training & certifications

Flexible hours

Tools & simulation access

Bonuses & profit-sharing

Dynamic remote team

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Remote Industrial Automation Engineer to design, implement, and support advanced automation systems from anywhere in South Africa. The role covers PLC programming, HMI/SCADA development, robotics integration, and remote troubleshooting for diverse industrial clients.

You will collaborate with project managers and clients via virtual channels, develop system configurations, and produce detailed technical documentation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Computer Engineering or related field.
• 7+ years in industrial automation with PLC, HMI/SCADA, and robotics.
• Proficiency in Ladder Logic, Structured Text, and Function Block Diagram.
• Experience with Profinet and Ethernet/IP networking.
• Knowledge of servo motors and VFDs.
• Strong problem-solving and remote-work abilities.
• Travel occasionally for on-site client support; eligible to work remotely in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automation solutions including PLC programming and HMI/SCADA.
• Specify and select automation hardware and software components.
• Develop control logic and system configurations to meet client needs.
• Remotely troubleshoot and diagnose issues in automated systems.
• Conduct virtual FATs and support SATs.
• Collaborate with project managers, clients, and internal teams virtually.
• Create documentation for control system architecture and code.
• Provide remote technical support and training to clients.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA design

Robotics integration

Industrial networking

Servo systems & VFDs

Remote work experience

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Mechatronics/Computer Engineering or related field

Tools

Siemens PLC

Allen-Bradley PLC

KUKA robotics

Fanuc robotics

HMI/SCADA software

Profinet

Ethernet/IP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge technology firm specializing in automated manufacturing solutions, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Remote Industrial Automation Engineer. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to leverage your expertise from anywhere within South Africa. You will play a crucial role in the design, development, implementation, and support of complex automated systems and control solutions for a diverse range of industrial clients. Your responsibilities will include PLC programming, HMI development, robotics integration, and troubleshooting of automated machinery. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of industrial control systems, programming languages, and a passion for innovation in automation. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a rapidly growing company and contribute to transformative automation projects without the need for on-site presence.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement industrial automation solutions, including PLC programming, HMI/SCADA development, and robot integration.
• Specify and select appropriate automation hardware and software components.
• Develop control logic, algorithms, and system configurations to meet client requirements.
• Remotely troubleshoot and diagnose issues with automated systems, providing timely solutions.
• Conduct virtual factory acceptance tests (FATs) and support site acceptance tests (SATs).
• Collaborate effectively with project managers, clients, and internal engineering teams through virtual channels.
• Create and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including control system architecture, programming code, and user manuals.
• Provide remote technical support and training to clients and end-users.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in automation technology and best practices.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of the company's automation standards and methodologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in industrial automation engineering, with a significant focus on PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMI/SCADA design, and robotic systems (e.g., KUKA, Fanuc).
• Proficiency in multiple PLC programming languages (e.g., Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Function Block Diagram).
• Experience with industrial networking protocols (e.g., Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Strong understanding of servo systems, motor control, and variable frequency drives (VFDs).
• Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and analytical skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple complex projects in a remote setting.
• Exceptional virtual communication, collaboration, and documentation skills.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for on-site client support if required (though the role is primarily remote).
• Must be legally authorized to work remotely within South Africa.

Benefits

• A competitive remote annual salary of up to ZAR .
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Generous annual leave and remote work infrastructure allowance.
• Opportunities for advanced training and certifications in automation technologies.
• Flexible working hours and the ability to work from anywhere in South Africa.
• Access to cutting-edge simulation and development tools.
• Performance bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities.
• A dynamic, innovative, and supportive remote team environment.