Job Expired

An excellent career opportunity exists for interested and qualified candidates to apply for the above-mentioned position at Namib Mills (Pty) Ltd, Windhoek.

PRIMARY PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
To independently design, implement, maintain, optimize, and support automation and control systems within the company. The role should ensure high equipment availability, food safety compliance, reliable industrial networks, and continuous improvement of automation systems in line with operational, quality, and safety requirements.

Job Summary

Type: full-time
Location: Windhoek
Category: Engineering
Closing Date: 2026-08-06

Key Responsibilities

Independently program, test, and commission automation systems from scratch.
Create, modify, and maintain PLC, HMI, and SCADA programs for new projects and existing installations.
Implement automation solutions aligned with food industry standards, production efficiency, and reliability.
Perform advanced fault finding, diagnostics, and repairs on PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, instrumentation, and control panels.
Maintain and troubleshoot PLC hardware, I/O modules, communication cards, and operator interfaces.
Perform system upgrades, expansions, and migrations with minimal production downtime.
Experience with PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems, including programming, configuration, diagnostics, maintenance, and system integration across platforms such as Siemens, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, OMRON, DELTA, Wonderware (AVEVA), and Ignition.
Design, maintain, and troubleshoot industrial networks, including Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus TCP/IP, Serial communication where applicable.
Work closely with the IT Department to ensure secure and reliable industrial networks, proper segmentation between IT and OT systems, system backups, redundancy, and cybersecurity best practices.
Maintain communication reliability between PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, VSDs, and other field devices.
Parameterization, commissioning, maintenance, and fault finding of Variable Speed Drives (VSDs).
Configure and maintain industrial instrumentation (pressure, temperature, flow, level, etc.).
Install, calibrate, repair, and maintain control and measurement equipment.
Ensure instrumentation accuracy in line with food quality and safety requirements.
Ensure automation systems comply with food manufacturing standards, including: hygiene and cleanability requirements, traceability and production data integrity and process consistency and repeatability
Support production systems critical to food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, uptime, and product consistency.
Perform preventative, predictive, and corrective maintenance on automation systems.
Provide 24/7 standby and call-out support as required.
Ensure minimal downtime through rapid troubleshooting and root cause analysis.
Maintain accurate documentation, backups, and version control of all automation systems.
Communicate independently with OEMs, system integrators, and automation vendors.
Coordinate remote and on-site support to resolve complex automation issues.
Evaluate new technologies and recommend suitable solutions for the plant.
Compile, update, and maintain all electrical, electronic, and automation documentation.
Complete job cards, timesheets, and reports accurately and timeously.
Adhere to all Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) policies and legal requirements.
Ensure work areas are kept clean, safe, and compliant with food manufacturing standards.
Assist with on-the-job training and mentoring of assistants where required.

Requirements

NTD – National Technical Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Automation, Mechatronics or Electronic Engineering.
OR
Equivalent recognized tertiary qualification in Industrial automation, Mechatronics or Electronics.
Siemens, Schneider and/or Allen-Bradley programming certification(s) will be an advantage.
Minimum of 5 years’ proven experience in industrial automation and OT within a manufacturing or FMCG environment.
Advanced PLC programming and troubleshooting (Siemens, Rockwell, OMRON, DELTA).
HMI and SCADA development and fault finding (Wonderware, Ignition).
Industrial networking and OT/IT integration.
VSD parameterization, commissioning, and maintenance.
Instrumentation and control systems.
Strong fault-finding and root cause analysis skills.
Proficient in Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Demonstrated ability to work independently on complex automation systems.
Proven experience implementing automation projects from concept to commissioning.

How to Apply

To apply, please visit: namib-mills.simplify.hr

About the Company

Namib Mills (Pty) Ltd is a pivotal company operating within Namibia's critical food production and supply chain. This entity is dedicated to ensuring the reliable availability of essential food products throughout the country. With its operations firmly rooted in Namibia, the company actively supports the nation's vital agricultural sector. Divisions like Feedmaster are central to its integrated approach, enhancing food security and rural development. Namib Mills significantly contributes to Namibia's economic stability and the nutritional needs of its population.

Driving Namibia's Food Production & Supply Chain.

Website: https://www.namibmills.com/

View all jobs at this company →

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications and certifications are typically required for an Automation Specialist role in Namibia?

A Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Electronic, Mechatronics, or Industrial Engineering is generally expected for this role. Practical experience with PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), SCADA systems, and industrial networking certifications would be highly beneficial. Many employers also look for a valid driver's license due to potential site visits.

What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for an Automation Specialist in an industrial setting like Namib Mills?

You would primarily be involved in designing, programming, installing, and maintaining industrial automation systems, including PLCs, SCADA, and robotics. This often includes troubleshooting operational issues, optimizing existing processes, and implementing new technological solutions to enhance efficiency and safety within manufacturing or processing plants.

What is the typical work culture and expectation for engineers in Namibian industrial environments?

Namibian industrial workplaces value reliability, strong problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to maintenance and improvement. Punctuality, strict adherence to safety protocols, and the ability to work effectively in a team are highly expected from engineering professionals. Adaptability to urgent requests and changing production schedules is also crucial.

What are the realistic career progression paths for an Automation Specialist in Namibia?

An Automation Specialist can typically advance to Senior Automation Specialist or Lead Engineer roles within the engineering department. Further progression might include moving into project management, engineering management, or specializing in specific advanced automation technologies like Industry 4.0 integration. Continuous learning and taking on leadership responsibilities are key for growth.

What kind of benefits package (e.g., leave, medical aid, pension) can I typically expect as an Automation Specialist in Namibia?

Standard benefits packages usually include annual leave, sick leave, and sometimes compassionate leave days. Many reputable employers in Namibia offer contributions towards medical aid schemes and provide access to pension or provident fund benefits as part of a comprehensive compensation package. Specifics can vary between companies.

What do Namibian employers typically look for when hiring an Automation Specialist, and what's the best way to apply?

Employers seek candidates with strong technical skills, hands-on experience in industrial automation, and a proven track record of successful project implementation and troubleshooting. A well-structured CV highlighting relevant projects, certifications, and a cover letter tailored to the specific role and company's operations are essential for a competitive application. Networking within the local engineering community can also be beneficial.

Automation ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING FMCG PLC SCADA