Automation Engineer

Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Job Description


Job Requirements

  • 5+ years minimum relative experience
  • Proven experience in designing and implementing automated systems
  • Strong proficiency in PLC programming and troubleshooting.
  • Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus).
  • Familiarity with electrical CAD software.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
  • N Dip / B-tech Electrical / Mechatronic Engineering
Additional Beneficial Experience and Qualifications:
  • Experience with Siemens and Phoenix Contact PLC Next
  • Project Management
  • PLC Training Courses and Certification
  • Automotive Industry Experience
Basic Function:
  • Design, build and implement automated systems for new and existing production machinery.
  • Project Management
  • Budget and Capex Planning
  • Machine Conceptualization and Design & Building Process
  • Innovation of Current Manufacturing Methods
  • People Development
  • Problem Solving & Investigation
Duties & Responsibilities:
Project Management:
  • Create and track timing plans for overall scope and individual activities.
  • Ensure milestones are achieved on time
  • Stakeholder engagement and management- Communicate clearly and objectively.
  • Advanced computer skills
  • Office 365
  • Sharepoint
  • Advanced excel
  • MS Teams
Budget & Capex Planning:
  • Evaluate and estimate capex for new projects
  • Track planned vs actual expenditure
  • Put together BOMs
  • Engage with Vendors for quotes
Machine Conceptualization and Design & Building Process
  • Conceptualize new Machine Designs
  • Work with internal, local & international designers / machine builders
  • Propose concepts
  • Spec automation components
  • Machine design
  • Understanding of mechanical machinery / assembly jigs and operating principles
  • Understanding of pneumatic systems
  • Understanding of hydraulic systems
  • Understanding of electrical systems
  • Conduct and support design reviews
  • System Design
  • Develop and design control systems for automated machinery.
  • Create detailed wiring schematics and diagrams.
  • Panel Wiring
  • Wire control panels according to design specifications.
  • Ensure the proper installation of electrical components.
  • Component Specification
  • Specify and select appropriate electrical components for automation systems.
  • Work closely with vendors to source necessary components.
  • Installation and Integration
  • Install and integrate electrical systems into existing production machinery.
  • Collaborate with other engineering disciplines to ensure seamless integration.
  • PLC Programming
  • Develop and implement PLC programs to control and monitor machinery.
  • Troubleshoot and debug PLC code as needed.
  • Testing and Commissioning
  • Conduct thorough testing of automated systems to ensure functionality and reliability.
  • Commission systems for full-scale production.
  • Documentation
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of electrical designs, schematics, and programming.
  • Create user manuals and provide training to operators as needed.
  • Collaboration
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, software developers, and project managers and artisans.
  • Collaborate with maintenance teams for ongoing support and troubleshooting.
Innovation of Current Manufacturing Methods:
  • Use lean principles to identify Kaizen opportunities
  • Use statistical and financial data to justify Kaizens
  • Improve current processes to improve quality, efficiency & scrap
People Development:
  • Train shift leaders on new processes
  • Develop and mentor students and interns
  • Self-development of engineering skills
Problem Solving & Investigation:
  • Conduct detailed investigations to support Quality with regards to field failures
  • Conduct detailed investigations into manufacturing problems
  • Support production with innovative solutions to manufacturing difficulties
Basic Function
Elimination of waste
  • Produce units to the defined output rate.
  • Accurately record all data on the data capture sheet timeously.
Continuous Improvement
  • Make Kaizen activity suggestions to make improvements.
5S and Safety, Health & Environmental
  • Practice and improve 5S in your work area in line with the 5S check sheet.
  • Ensure PPE is worn according to work standards.
  • All incidents need to be reported within the same shift.
  • Perform all safety checks according to the safety standards.
  • Follow the SHEMS procedures.
Quality
  • Ensure parts produced meet quality specifications and follow up on non-conforming product procedures.
  • Work cycle must be completed before leaving work.
  • Pack parts as per the packing instruction and perform work according to the set standards.
  • Raise problems and concerns to your superior timeously.
Attendance
  • Responsible for own personal attendance to ensure it is 98% on an ongoing basis.
People development
  • Follow HR Policies & Procedures. Responsible for own personal development.
General
  • Report on production performance. Carry out any reasonable instructions.

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Job Detail

  • Job Id
    JD1326466
  • Industry
    Not mentioned
  • Total Positions
    1
  • Job Type:
    Full Time
  • Salary:
    Not mentioned
  • Employment Status
    Permanent
  • Job Location
    Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
  • Education
    Not mentioned