110 Automation Engineer jobs in South Africa

Automation Engineer

• Identify potential areas of improvement in current manufacturing equipment or processes and drive the implementation of replacement equipment/processes
• Identify new technologies, processes, or standards that can be used in the supply chain of The Company to improve the manufacturing process
• Play a lead technical role in the development of new systems from an Automation Engineering aspect within larger team projects
• Provide support to outsourced automation projects, including:
  • Creating documentation (e.g., user requirement specifications)
  • Offering technical assistance
  • Overseeing commissioning
  • Supporting integration into current systems
  • Providing long-term support to manufacturing and automation projects
• Offer manufacturing insight during new product development or major changes to existing products, to influence outcomes early in the product development life cycle
• Stay informed on new product development (especially in R&D) and collaborate through the full industrialization life cycle
• Provide technical support to current legacy equipment and systems
• Contribute to long-term manufacturing strategy development
• Transfer knowledge applicable to The Company's manufacturing processes and systems to other team members to build internal capabilities
• Continuously develop technical skills to remain an expert in automation
• Collaborate with senior personnel in manufacturing to enhance understanding of current systems and standards
• Implement effective communication strategies and integrate project planning between departments

• BEng in Mechatronics or equivalent qualification
• 3 - 5 years experience in automation engineering and system development in a highly technological environment
• Understanding of electronic system design
• Understanding of mechanical system design

Location: Durban
Type: Full Time/ Permanent

The above positions have become available at Ramsay Engineering . Suitably qualified candidates that meet the job requirements are invited to apply for the position.

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.
• Office 365
• Sharepoint
• Advanced excel
• MS Teams

Budget & Capex Planning:

• Evaluate and estimate capex for new projects
• Track planned vs actual expenditure
• Put together BOM’s
• 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
• 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.
• Wire control panels according to design specifications.
• Ensure the proper installation of electrical components.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Responsible for own personal attendance to ensure it is 98% on an ongoing basis.
• Follow HR Policies & Procedures. Responsible for own personal development.

General:

• Report on production performance. Carry out any reasonable instructions.

Preference will be given to employees from the designated groups in line with the provisions of the Employment Equity Act, No 55 of 1998 and any amendments thereto, Ramsay Engineering Internal Recruitment Policy as well as the Employment Equity Plan.

NB: If applicants have not received a response two weeks after the closing date, please accept that your applications have not been successful.

Employment Type: Contract (Potential to convert to perm)
Work model: On-site with flexible working hours
Location: Sandton

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Automation Tester to join our technology team. The successful candidate will play a key role in the design, development, and implementation of automated testing solutions to ensure high-quality software delivery across our development lifecycle. You will work closely with developers, DevOps, and QA team members to integrate testing within CI/CD pipelines and promote best practices in automated and behavior-driven testing.

• Design, develop, and maintain robust, scalable, and reusable automated test frameworks using Java (and C# where applicable).

• Collaborate with development and DevOps teams to integrate automated tests within CI/CD pipelines using tools like YAML , Azure DevOps , or equivalent platforms.

• Implement and support Behavior Driven Development (BDD) practices and tools.

• Create and execute automated tests for REST APIs , Web GUIs , and back-end systems.

• Ensure the creation of meaningful, data-driven test scenarios using SQL for data setup and validation.

• Apply object-oriented programming (OOP) principles in designing test solutions.

• Perform and script load and performance testing across the application stack.

• Collaborate with security teams to include security testing in the automation suite where applicable.

• Provide coaching and support to development teams on test automation strategies and best practices.

• Manage and maintain source control using GIT and enforce good versioning discipline.

Are you looking to advance your career in Automation? Put your PLC skills to work alongside industry leaders on projects spanning government, mining, and more. This is your chance to join a company with a solid reputation for stability and success.

1. Design, develop, and implement innovative automation solutions to optimize process efficiency.
2. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand requirements and translate them into robust automation solutions.
3. Lead site commissioning activities, ensuring seamless integration and functionality of automation systems.
4. Provide technical support and troubleshooting expertise during project implementation and post-commissioning phases.
5. Utilize your expertise in PLC programming and SCADA systems to deliver top-notch automation solutions.

1. Minimum 1+ years of experience in a similar environment.
2. Skills in design, process control, and automation.
3. Team player, with great interpersonal skills.
4. Practical thinker.
5. ABB & Siemens experience is advantageous.

BEng/BSc Electronic / Mechatronic / Electrical & Electronic.

Only South African Residents or individuals with a relevant South African work permit will be considered.

Contact SHAWN VELDTMAN on , quoting the Ref: CTE025190.

Connect with us on and Register your CV to create a profile and view all our Engineering recruitment vacancies.

If you have not had any response in two weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful. Your profile will be kept on our database, and we will connect with you regarding any other suitable roles or positions.

Joining our esteemed client in the East of Johannesburg as an Automation Engineer sets the stage for an exhilarating journey of technological advancement. As a pivotal member of our team, you'll pioneer the design, programming, and testing of state-of-the-art automated systems, revolutionizing our clients' operations. Your responsibilities will span from PLCs, RAPIDs, and Prepmasters programming to HMI application development and top-tier troubleshooting support. Working alongside passionate professionals, you'll collaborate on ingenious solutions, share insights, and learn from industry luminaries. If you're driven by innovation and poised to shape the future of technology, seize the opportunity to join our dynamic team and make a profound impact as an Automation Engineer.

• A Degree in Electrical/Control System Engineering or a related scientific discipline in electronics or mechatronics.

• Experience in automation engineering is a must! We're particularly interested in your expertise with PLCs, variable speed drives, barcode scanners, safety devices, robotics (such as ABB, Mitsubishi, and Epson), and SCADA systems (Siemens WINCC preferred). Show us how you've made an impact in these areas!
• Are you a natural problem-solver? Strong troubleshooting skills in mechanical, electrical, and software domains will be key to your success in this role. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and overcome challenges with confidence!
• Attention to detail is crucial when working with advanced automation systems. We need someone who takes pride in their work and consistently delivers high-quality results.

R 7000 - R 9000 - Annually

Our client is seeking a skilled and motivated Automation Engineer to support the design, implementation, and maintenance of automated systems within their production environment. This is a great opportunity to join a dynamic and innovative team working on advanced manufacturing solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop automated control systems to improve production efficiency.
• Programme and maintain PLCs and HMIs.
• Assist in integrating automation solutions with existing production lines.
• Conduct testing and troubleshooting of automated systems.
• Provide technical support and collaborate with engineering and production teams.
• Stay informed about emerging automation technologies and suggest relevant improvements.

Experience and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Automation Engineering.
• 2–5 years of relevant experience in an automation or controls environment.
• Solid understanding of PLC programming (e.g. Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and SCADA systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.

Salary:
Market-related, based on experience and qualifications.

Application Process:
If you do not hear back from us within two weeks of your application, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Location: On-Site
Employment Type: Full-Time
Industry: Industrial Automation | Electrical Engineering | Control Systems

WatersEdge Solutions is hiring a highly technical and self-driven Automation Engineer to design and develop smart automation systems within a high-performance engineering environment. This is an excellent opportunity to work on end-to-end projects, from concept through commissioning, with exposure to leading technologies such as PLCs, SCADA, HMI, and integrated web functionality.

About the Role
As an Automation Engineer, you’ll design, program, test, and optimise automation systems for industrial clients. The role covers software development, factory and site acceptance testing, and ongoing client support. You’ll also have the opportunity to add value through advanced services such as business data reporting and web-interface integration. If you’re looking to combine strong technical ability with client-facing delivery, this is the ideal role for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test PLC, SCADA, and HMI automation systems

• Participate in internal planning sessions to translate client control philosophies into automation logic

• Execute Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT)

• Provide ongoing client support and maintenance, including root cause analysis and site visits

• Deliver client training on plant control systems and process optimisation

• Build custom reports and web interfaces based on client requests

• Ensure all development milestones, testing, and documentation meet agreed quality standards

• Maintain professional client relationships, resolving issues effectively and promoting service excellence

What You’ll Bring

• BTech or BSc in Mechatronics, Electronics, or Electrical Engineering

• Strong technical experience with PLC brands (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Schneider Vijeo Citect), HMI, and SCADA systems

• Understanding of automation operating systems and network configurations

• Familiarity with databases and web interface development is advantageous

• Analytical mindset with fault-finding and decision-making skills

• Planning, organisation, and attention to detail

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work under pressure with a strong sense of accountability and urgency

Nice to Have

• Experience developing reports using business data

• Exposure to client training and commissioning processes

• Familiarity with web development for industrial automation environments

What’s On Offer

• Opportunity to work on full-lifecycle automation projects

• Exposure to cutting-edge tools and technologies

• Strong mentorship and career development in a technically rigorous environment

• Hybrid working model with site-based project engagement

• A role that combines innovation, precision, and client impact

Company Culture
At WatersEdge Solutions, we align skilled engineers with organisations driving innovation in automation. You’ll join a team that values problem-solving, collaboration, and continuous technical growth—where your contributions are critical to delivering smarter, more efficient systems for the industrial sector.

If you have not been contacted within 10 working days, please consider your application unsuccessful.