Software Engineer – Plant Automation

Network Contracting; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automation solutions provider in Johannesburg is seeking an experienced automation engineer to design and implement software for plant systems. The ideal candidate will have over 35 years of experience in industrial automation and a strong background in PLC, SCADA, and DCS systems. This role requires hands-on experience and advanced problem-solving skills. Knowledge of Industry 4.0 technologies is advantageous.

Qualifications

• 35+ years experience in automation software engineering within plant or industrial environments.
• Hands-on experience with PLC, SCADA, HMI, and DCS systems.
• Knowledge of process automation in mining, energy, FMCG, or manufacturing industries.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and implement automation software for plant systems.
• Configure and program automation platforms.
• Integrate control systems with plant equipment and instrumentation.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA systems

DCS systems

HMI systems

Problem-solving

Debugging

Troubleshooting

Education

Degree / National Diploma in Software Engineering

Degree / National Diploma in Computer Science

Degree / National Diploma in Electrical / Electronic Engineering

Tools

Siemens TIA Portal

Rockwell Studio 5000

Wonderware

ABB 800xA

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and implement automation software for plant systems (PLC, SCADA, DCS, HMI).
• Configure and program automation platforms (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell / Allen Bradley, Schneider, ABB).
• Integrate control systems with plant equipment, instrumentation, and IT / OT networks.
• Support commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimization of automation systems on-site.
• Develop system documentation, user manuals, and training material.
• Collaborate with process, electrical, and instrumentation engineers to deliver turnkey solutions.
• Ensure software complies with industry standards, safety requirements, and cybersecurity guidelines.
• Provide technical support and maintenance for deployed automation systems.
• Stay up to date with new technologies in IIoT, Industry 4.0, and digitalization for potential integration.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree / National Diploma in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical / Electronic Engineering, or related field.
• 35+ years experience in automation software engineering within plant or industrial environments.
• Hands-on experience with PLC, SCADA, HMI, and DCS systems (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000, Wonderware, ABB 800xA, etc.).
• Proficiency in industrial communication protocols (Modbus, Profibus, Profinet, OPC, Ethernet / IP).
• Experience with databases, reporting tools, and integration of IT / OT systems.
• Knowledge of process automation in mining, energy, FMCG, or manufacturing industries .
• Exposure to IIoT platforms and Industry 4.0 technologies (advantageous).
• Strong problem-solving, debugging, and troubleshooting skills.