Automation Engineer
- Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal
- Permanent
- Full-time
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
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
- Evaluate and estimate capex for new projects
- Track planned vs actual expenditure
- Put together BOM’s
- Engage with Vendors for quotes
- 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.
- Use lean principles to identify Kaizen opportunities
- Use statistical and financial data to justify Kaizens
- Improve current processes to improve quality, efficiency & scrap
- Train shift leaders on new processes
- Develop and mentor students and interns
- Self-development of engineering skills
- 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
- 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
- Experience with Siemens and Phoenix Contact PLC Next
- Project Management
- PLC Training Courses and Certification
- Automotive Industry Experience