Senior Robotics & Automation Research Engineer

Placements24; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Learning & development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Engineer specializing in Robotics and Automation for its Midrand, Gauteng R&D facility. The role focuses on designing, building and integrating advanced robotic systems for research applications, with leadership across multidisciplinary teams.

The candidate will develop control algorithms, work on motion planning and sensor fusion, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring safe, compliant engineering practices.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD required in a relevant field.
• Minimum 6 years of robotics and automation engineering experience.
• Proven ability to design/build robotic systems (hardware & software).
• Experience with ROS, motion planning, and sensor fusion in R&D.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and test robotic systems and automated lab equipment.
• Develop control algorithms for robotic applications (motion planning & sensors).
• Collaborate with scientists to translate automation needs into specs.
• Integrate hardware, sensors and actuators into robotic systems.
• Perform troubleshooting, debugging, and performance optimization.
• Stay updated with robotics and automation advancements.
• Create technical documentation and user manuals.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians; manage project timelines.
• Ensure safety standards and best practices in engineering and research.

Skills

C++

Python

ROS

Control systems

Motion planning

Sensor fusion

CAD

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical Eng, Electrical Eng, Robotics, or related

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Engineer specializing in Robotics and Automation for its Midrand, Gauteng R&D facility. The role focuses on designing, building and integrating advanced robotic systems for research applications, with leadership across multidisciplinary teams.

The candidate will develop control algorithms, work on motion planning and sensor fusion, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring safe, compliant engineering practices.