Senior Automation Engineer - Automotive Manufacturing

About

Our client, a leading name in the automotive manufacturing sector, is seeking a highly competent Senior Automation Engineer to join their innovative production facility in Klerksdorp, North West. This role is crucial for optimizing and advancing the company's automated production lines, ensuring efficiency, quality, and safety. You will be responsible for the design, development, implementation, and troubleshooting of sophisticated automation systems, including PLC programming, HMI design, robotics integration, and SCADA systems. A key focus will be on continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to enhance productivity through new technologies and process upgrades. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial automation, excellent problem-solving skills, and a proven track record in complex manufacturing environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, commission, and troubleshoot PLCs (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMIs, and robotic systems (e.g., KUKA, FANUC).
• Develop and implement SCADA systems for real-time monitoring and control of production processes.
• Integrate various automation components and ensure seamless communication between different systems.
• Lead automation projects from concept to completion, including defining requirements, specifying equipment, and managing vendor relationships.
• Perform root cause analysis on automation failures and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive automation documentation, including electrical schematics, program code, and operational manuals.
• Collaborate closely with production, maintenance, and engineering teams to identify and implement automation improvements.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in automation technology and industry best practices.
• Ensure automation systems comply with safety standards and regulations.
• Train and mentor junior automation technicians and engineers.
• Develop and manage budgets for automation projects and upgrades.
• Optimize existing automated processes for increased efficiency, throughput, and quality.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in industrial automation engineering, with a strong focus on manufacturing environments, preferably automotive.
• Proficiency in programming and troubleshooting various PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens S7, Rockwell Logix).
• Experience with industrial robotics programming and integration.
• Strong understanding of HMI/SCADA software (e.g., WinCC, FactoryTalk View).
• Knowledge of industrial networks (e.g., Profibus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience with vision systems and motion control.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Proven ability to manage complex automation projects.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing principles is a plus.
• Professional registration (e.g., PrEng) is advantageous.

This is a significant opportunity for a skilled engineer to drive innovation in a major manufacturing hub within Klerksdorp, North West. Join a forward-thinking company committed to technological advancement.