Senior Robotics Automation Engineer

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and retirement plans

Advanced training and certifications

Travel allowances and per diems

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Robotics Automation Engineer to lead design, implementation, and optimization of robotic systems and automated lines in Nelspruit. You will drive projects from concept to commissioning with hands-on execution and client interaction.

The role requires strong background in industrial robotics, PLC programming, vision systems and system integration, plus travel to client sites as needed. On-site, full-time commitment in Nelspruit is expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or related field.
• 7+ years of robotics and automation engineering experience.
• Proficiency with major industrial robot brands (KUKA/ABB/Fanuc) and programming environments.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement robotic work cells and automated production systems.
• Develop and debug PLC programs for system control and integration with robotic cells.
• Configure and integrate vision systems for inspection and quality control.
• Perform system commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting at client sites and in-house.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical teams for seamless integration.
• Create documentation including schematics, code, and user manuals.
• Optimize systems for throughput and reliability.
• Provide tech support and client training.

Skills

Robotics expertise

PLC programming

Vision systems

System integration

Problem solving

Communication

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics

Tools

KUKA

ABB

Fanuc

Siemens PLC

Rockwell/Allen-Bradley

Cognex/Keyence vision systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of integrated automation solutions for the manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Robotics Automation Engineer to join their team in Nelspruit. This is an on-site position dedicated to the design, implementation, and optimization of robotic systems and automated production lines. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in industrial robotics, PLC programming, vision systems, and system integration. You will be responsible for delivering cutting-edge automation solutions that enhance efficiency, improve quality, and reduce operational costs for our clients. This role requires a hands-on approach, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage complex automation projects from conception to completion.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement robotic work cells and automated production systems using industrial robots (e.g., KUKA, ABB, Fanuc).
• Develop and debug PLC programs for system control and integration with robotic cells.
• Configure and integrate vision systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence) for inspection, guidance, and quality control.
• Perform system commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting at client sites and our facility.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions.
• Develop comprehensive documentation, including schematics, programming code, and user manuals.
• Optimize existing automated systems for improved throughput, efficiency, and reliability.
• Provide technical support and training to clients and field technicians.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in robotics, automation technology, and related software.
• Ensure automation solutions comply with relevant safety standards and regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in robotics and automation engineering.
• Proficiency with at least one major industrial robot brand (e.g., KUKA, ABB, Fanuc) and their programming environments.
• Strong PLC programming skills (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley).
• Experience with industrial vision systems and integration.
• Solid understanding of automation principles, motion control, and electrical/mechanical integration.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and diagnostic skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Willingness to travel to client sites as required.
• Must be available for full-time on-site work in Nelspruit.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of ZAR.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement plans.
• Opportunities for advanced training and certifications in robotics.
• Travel allowances and per diems for site visits.
• Exposure to diverse and challenging automation projects across various industries.
• A dynamic work environment with a focus on innovation and technology.
• Generous paid time off.