Senior Robotics Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Online training resources

Remote-first role

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Robotics Engineer to design, program and maintain robotic systems for diverse industrial applications. This fully remote role within South Africa emphasizes distributed collaboration and cutting-edge automation.

You will lead motion planning, control algorithms, and integration with PLCs and vision systems, mentoring junior engineers and driving solutions from home offices across Gauteng and beyond.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree with robotics focus.
• Minimum 6 years hands-on robotics design and programming experience.
• Proficient in C++, Python, and robot-specific languages.
• Experience with ROS, RoboDK, and MATLAB Robotics System Toolbox.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop robotic systems including end-effector design and workspace analysis.
• Program industrial robots for manufacturing processes including welding and handling.
• Develop control algorithms and motion planning strategies.
• Integrate robots with PLCs, vision systems, and other automation equipment.
• Conduct feasibility studies, risk assessments, and performance simulations.
• Troubleshoot, debug, and ensure reliable robotic systems.
• Create technical documentation and training materials.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership.
• Stay updated on robotics, AI, and automation trends.
• Collaborate with clients and internal teams to tailor solutions.

Skills

C++

Python

Robot languages

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree with robotics focus

Tools

ROS

RoboDK

MATLAB Robotics System Toolbox

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a trailblazer in industrial automation and smart manufacturing solutions, is seeking a highly motivated Senior Robotics Engineer to join their innovative team. This position is fully remote, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere within South Africa. You will be instrumental in designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining robotic systems for a diverse range of industrial applications. The role requires a deep understanding of robotic kinematics, control systems, path planning, and integration with other automation technologies. Based conceptually in Pretoria, Gauteng, ZA, this role offers the flexibility to work from a home office. We are looking for a hands‑on engineer with a passion for cutting‑edge robotics and a proven ability to solve complex engineering challenges in a distributed team environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop robotic systems, including robot selection, end‑effector design, and workspace analysis.
• Program industrial robots (e.g., KUKA, FANUC, ABB) for various manufacturing processes, including assembly, welding, and material handling.
• Develop and implement sophisticated control algorithms and motion planning strategies.
• Integrate robotic systems with PLCs, vision systems, and other automation equipment.
• Conduct feasibility studies, risk assessments, and performance simulations for proposed robotic solutions.
• Troubleshoot and debug robotic systems, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
• Develop technical documentation, including user manuals, maintenance guides, and training materials.
• Collaborate with clients and internal teams to understand requirements and deliver customized robotic solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in robotics, AI, and automation technologies.
• Mentor junior robotics engineers and provide technical leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field with a focus on robotics.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands‑on experience in designing, programming, and implementing industrial robotic systems.
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in robotics, such as C++, Python, and specific robot manufacturer languages.
• Strong understanding of robot kinematics, dynamics, control theory, and motion planning algorithms.
• Experience with robot simulation software (e.g., ROS, RoboDK, MATLAB Robotics System Toolbox).
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Profinet, EtherNet/IP) and PLC integration.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to work independently in a remote setting.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, essential for remote collaboration.
• Experience with machine vision systems is a plus.
• Knowledge of safety standards for industrial automation is desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance‑based incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and a retirement savings plan. We foster a culture of continuous learning and provide access to online training platforms and professional development resources. This fully remote role emphasizes work‑life balance and offers the flexibility to manage your workday effectively. You will have the opportunity to work on innovative projects that are shaping the future of manufacturing, contributing to smart factory initiatives from your own home office, regardless of your proximity to Pretoria, Gauteng, ZA. Join a dynamic team and advance your career in the exciting field of robotics.