Automation Engineer
Role Summary:
An Automation Engineer, plays a pivotal role in designing, developing, and implementing automated solutions to support product development and operational processes. This role collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to identify industrial automation opportunities, develop robust frameworks, and integrate automation into new and existing systems. Additionally, this role is responsible for technical product management, specifically focusing on PLC and SCADA systems, ensuring that offerings align with industry needs and client requirements - working closely with the product marketing team. The role involves active project-based development and project management for applications developed for and with partners.
Main Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement automation solutions, including robotic systems, PLC programming, SCADA development, and control systems.
- Identify opportunities for automation for new and existing manufacturing and operational processes of customers. Collaborate with different departments to understand their needs and develop appropriate automation solutions for these opportunities.
- Conduct testing and validation of automated systems to ensure reliability, safety, and efficiency. Perform simulations and analyse data to optimise system performance.
- Maintain and troubleshoot existing automation systems to ensure minimal downtime and optimal performance. Provide technical support to resolve automation-related issues.
- Create and maintain detailed documentation of automation processes, including design specifications, user manuals, and maintenance guides.
- Train and support staff on the use of automated systems and processes. Develop training materials and deliver workshops or training sessions as needed.
- Ensure all automation systems comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and company policies. Implement safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with automation technologies.
- Manage automation projects from conception through to implementation, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget
Essential Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Automation, or a related field).
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in automation engineering or a similar role.
- Proficiency in PLC, HMI and SCADA development is required with expertise in programming (IEC 61131-3, etc.), SCADA platforms (VTScada, Wonderware, Ignition), and industrial protocols (Modbus, Profinet, OPC).
- A solid understanding of control systems (PID tuning, sensor integration), safety standards (IEC 61508, SIL, ISO 13849), and networking (cybersecurity, IIoT) is essential.
- Experience with robotic systems and integration.
- Analytical and problem-solving, project management, teamwork, and effective communication.
- Familiarity with safety standards and regulations related to automation.
- Proven track record of successfully delivering projects involving the development and integration of SCADA and PLC systems, from requirements gathering to implementation and support.
Beneficial Requirements:
- Master’s degree in a related field.
- Certifications in automation technologies (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi).
- Experience with Industry 4.0 technologies, such as IoT, AI, and machine learning.
- Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software.
- Experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Experience with programming languages such as Python, C++, or Java.
- Exposure to Product Marketing and Lifecycle Management for software and other automation products.
- Experience in the Sales and Business Development workflow for Industrial Automation Systems with industry exposure.
- Department
- Group Engineering
- Locations
- EM Support Office
About EM
EM is a specialist provider of electrical switchgear and solutions for automation and energy management.
We remain totally committed to our founding principle of supplying Africa with world-leading, high-quality products, brought to you by people passionate about service.
Automation Engineer
Loading application form