Automation Engineer

The role of the Automation Engineer (PLC) Programmer is to design, develop, test, and maintain industrial automation and/or complex electro-mechanical control systems.  Working at the intersection of electrical design engineering, software development, and industrial equipment, the role takes automation and other projects from initial functional specification through programming, integration, simulation, and on-site commissioning.

Scope of Work:

1. Control Systems Architecture – Translating electrical/mechanical schematics into reliable PLC programs (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.).
2. Industrial HMI/SCADA Development – Designing Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI) and Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA) screens for operator monitoring and control.
3. On-Site Commissioning & Troubleshooting – Installing, debugging and optimising control systems in client/site plants.

Technical Responsibilities:

1. Software Programming – Write structured PLC code, modify and optimise control code using relevant languages (e.g. Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Function Block Diagram etc.)
2. Hardware Integration – Program and configure Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), servo drives, robotics, sensors, actuators, and safety interlocks.
3. Industrial Networking – Design and troubleshoot fieldbus and industrial communication protocols (EitherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus, DeviceNet et)
4. Process Optimisation – Identify bottlenecks in existing automation routines to improve cycle times, reduce equipment downtime, and enhance plant/site safety.
5. System Commissioning & Troubleshooting – Conduct Factor Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), using virtual simulation and/or physical hardware testing, debug electrical errors and perform root-cause analysis on faults under production pressure prior to commissioning.
6. Documentation & Safety Standards – Develop Control Functional Specifications (CFS), I/O lists, operator manuals, and ensure full compliance with relevant standards.                         

People Management/Leadership Responsibilities:

1. Be a role model for your team – leading by example.
2. Inspire, lead and manage a team effectively – Influence desired outcomes utilising effective leadership skills.
3. Ensure compliance with all standards, procedures and regulatory requirements
4. Educate, train, develop, coach and constructively correct team members to enable them to progress their skills and abilities.

Travel
This role is office-based primarily, with a requirement to travel domestically or overseas to client sites when required