Automation Engineer

Job description

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.

Required Skill Profession

Electrical & Energy Engineering