Automation Technician (Project Lead)

SUMMARY:
Software Automation Technician - Project Lead

POSITION INFO:

 AUTOMATION TECHNICIAN – AUTOMATION LEAD 

 Our client, an industrial automation and robotics company, is seeking an experienced Automation Lead to manage and coordinate complex automation projects!

•  Location: Pretoria
•  Salary: R35,000 - R45,000
•  Working Hours: 8am - 5pm, Monday to Friday (overtime sometimes required)

What You''''''''ll Do: 

•  Plan and coordinate automation projects from initiation to commissioning
•  Lead teams of automation technicians, programmers, and site staff
•  Execute PLC programming (Siemens/Beckhoff preferred)
•  Robot programming, calibration, and integration (KUKA/ABB/FANUC/Yaskawa)
•  HMI development and SCADA configuration
•  Track progress against schedules, budgets, and risk registers
•  Troubleshoot software, robotics, and communication faults
•  Conduct FAT, SAT, commissioning tests, and final handover checks

Essential Experience: 

•  Proven PLC programming and robot programming experience
•  Automotive sector experience preferred
•  Minimum 3 years experience: Kuka Robots, Beckhoff and Siemens PLCs
•  Leadership experience managing technical teams

Required Qualifications: 

 Degree or National Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, or Industrial Automation
OR
 Applicable trade certificate (Electrical, Millwright, or Mechatronic)

Key Responsibilities:

Project Management: 

•  Define project scope, milestones, and delivery timelines
•  Conduct regular progress meetings and status updates
•  Manage resources and risk registers

Technical Delivery: 

•  Manage daily PLC & Robot backups
•  Interpret control system architectures and network layouts
•  Collaborate with engineering for program updates and reworks
•  Provide mentorship to junior technicians

Essential Skills: 

•  MS Windows, MS Outlook, MS Excel, MS Project
•  AutoCAD experience advantageous
•  Strong task allocation and quality monitoring abilities
•  Excellent management and communication skills
•  Valid driver''''''''s license and own transportation