AUTOMATION ENGINEER

PURPOSE OF THE JOB: The Automation Engineer is responsible for preforming instrumentation activities, software programming and maintenance assistance in the plant. The Automation Engineer will also form a crucial part of the digitization as well as automation of the plant.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS:

• Ensure manufacturing process PLC and other automation programs are in place for planned orders prior to the production start date.
• Drive closure of the identified gaps from the manufacturing process documentation and PLC program reviews
• Completion of all assigned capital projects in accordance to project management best practices
• Completion of all developmental projects (i.e projects from PD)
• Completion of the approved plant improvement initiatives for planned and current orders
• First line of support for operations/production
• Conduct operational studies with the aim of improving challenges, in line with the business plan priorities and to translate operational requirements into specifications
• Offer Automation and PLC support and process support within the designated area.
• Develop viable strategies to optimise automated processes and methods.
• Map current operational processes and come up with best Programs possible.
• Work with functional leaders to increase productivity, reduce operating costs, maximise efficiency and manage human capital more effectively.
• Coordinate quality control objectives and activities to resolve service problems, maximise reliability, and minimise cost.
• Communicate with management and user personnel to develop automated processes and process efficiency standards.
• Design and generate reports to identify opportunities that drive performance improvements.
• Create and deliver effective presentations regarding recommended solutions and alternatives for assigned initiatives.
• Manage the CAPEX process including safety, planning, budgeting, design, execution, and reporting within the guidelines in order to provide the best possible return on investment.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills including presentations and report writing.
• Computer literacy: MS Word, Excel, Power Point-proficient level (minimum).
• Attention to detail, communication, planning and administrative skills.
• Knowledge of Siemens S7 Programming (TIA Portal: Step 7 and WinCC).
• Citect Scada and HMI development and programming experience.
• Variable Speed Drives Programming.
• Demonstrate a willingness to be flexible, versatile and/or tolerant in a changing work environment while maintaining effectiveness and efficiency
• Demonstrate the ability to learn company systems and adapt work methods to the most effective application of systems and rules
• Ability to use all the tools availab

Minimum Requirements:

• BSc / BEng. In Electrical / Computer Electrical / Mechatronics Engineering.
• At least 3 years’ PLC programming experience in a manufacturing plant environment.
• An in-depth understanding and working knowledge of control and instrumentation activities and drawings.
• Experience in implementation of instrumentation projects and software programming.
• Good planning, integration and resources management skills.
• Interpersonal skills and ability to effectively collaborate with multiple disciplines both internally and externally.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills including presentations and report writing.
• Computer literacy: MS Word, Excel, Power Point-proficient level (minimum).
• Attention to detail, communication, planning and administrative skills.
• Knowledge of Siemens S7 Programming (TIA Portal: Step 7 and WinCC).
• Citect Scada and HMI development and programming experience.
• Variable Speed Drives Programming.
• Demonstrate a willingness to be flexible, versatile and/or tolerant in a changing work environment while maintaining effectiveness and efficiency
• Demonstrate the ability to learn company systems and adapt work methods to the most effective application of systems and rules
• Ability to use all the tools available to do problem solving and direct a team to the most effective solution
• Have the ability to evaluate a problem and make a decision on how to fix. Have the ability to defend that decision with technical back-up
• Ability to grasp the basic principles of lean manufacturing and incorporate knowledge in design of jigs, parts and facilities
• Understand and demonstrates the ability to work in a team
• Ability and skill to manage engineering teams