Automation Specialist (IT & OT)

About the position

Well established Automotive company based in South Africa are seeking a qualified and experience applicant to join their dynamic team.

The Automation (OT) & IT specialist is responsible to ensure that all Automation and IT infrastructure (under the control of Paint shop) are kept current with the latest and future proof technologies on the market. The specialist must design, manage and oversee the implementation of preventative and predictive maintenance systems related to both automation and IT infrastructure, including the management of periodic patch and security software updates. This function is critical within the Paint Shop to ensure maximum machine availability and compliance according to company standards.

Possible Tasks within this Role

• Take full responsibility of the integrated automation systems (information & operational technology) within Paint shop to ensure safe and sustainable production operations.
• To recommend, update and modify OT / IT installations to the latest engineering technology.
• Provide support to Paint Shop maintenance personnel during breakdowns (including after-hours).
• Conduct routine plant inspections to continuously monitor facility operation & performance
• Monitor store stock of critical plant equipment related to all OT & IT hardware on a regular basis by counting and documenting store stock levels to always ensure sufficient spare part availability.
• Compile & maintain a complete IT & OT asset list of all Paint shop equipment utilizing manual & automatic processes to ensure good record keeping and compliance as per company standards.
• Ensure that the correct back-up software is loaded after cases of equipment failure, power failure or human error to ensure optimal facility performance.
• Provide Training to Technicians & Artisans both on-the-job and through formal sessions.
• Manage software for Change Management procedures (Version Dog).
• Develop and maintain workshop test equipment to perform root-cause analysis on faulty devices e.g. Interbus modules, Variable speed drives, etc.
• Align IT infrastructure requirements by having regular meetings with the IS team to ensure plant standards are always maintained.
• Configure / maintain / future proof the MES system that forms an integral part of the Paint shop’s control system.
• Basic knowledge of Cyber Security systems/processes
• Continuous improvement in System generated reports in order to manage production flow and OPR performance.

Qualification requirements

• Have a National Diploma / Degree in Mechatronics / Electrical / Electronic Engineering.

Experience needed

• Minimum of 7 years’ experience in an automation environment.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in control system technologies / maintaining of shop floor IT.

Essentials

• Must be able to implement & maintain management systems to ensure optimized utilization of automation equipment, archiving / backing up programs & applications.
• A vast level of experience on various types of industrial manufacturing equipment and operating software.
• Expert knowledge and experience of Programmable Logic Controllers and associated software languages / standards.
• Must be able to configure and fault find Ethernet / Profinet networks & devices (Siemens & Hirschmann).
• Ability to configure and fault find variable speed drive technologies (Siemens, SEW, Danfoss & Lenze).
• Be fully competent to initiate, implement / co-ordinate any OT & IT related projects from initiation phase to closure.
• Ability to communicate effectively across various departments and reporting levels.
• Ability to work both independently and as a team.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills coupled with strong analytical & administration experience.
• Perform standby duties after hours.

If you feel like you meet the requirements and that you are a great fit for this position, kindly send your CV to Erin Bentz at [Email Address Removed]

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should you not receive a response within 14 days please consider your application unsuccessful. We will keep your CV on our database for any other relevant roles that may arise.

Desired Skills:

• Cyber Security
• Electrical
• Mechatronics

Employer & Job Benefits:

• Medical Aid Contribution
• Provident Fund Contribution
• Performance Bonuses
• Company Car