Process Automation Engineer at The Coca-Cola Company

Job Description    

• Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) presents an exciting opportunity for a Process Automation Engineer, to join the Midrand team at CCBA. These roles will report to the Industrial Control & Automation Manager.

Key Purpose

• To design, implement, and optimise automation and control systems that improve manufacturing performance, reliability, safety, and efficiency while supporting digital transformation and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Duties & Responsibilities    
Key Outcomes

Automation Systems Engineering and Development

• Design and implement automation solutions including PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems for manufacturing processes.
• Develop standard code modules, templates, and system architectures for consistency across sites.
• Ensure automation systems meet control and production requirements with a focus on safety, quality, and efficiency.

Integration and Digital Manufacturing Enablement

• Integrate automation platforms with MES, ERP, quality systems, and industrial IoT solutions.
• Support data acquisition and reporting through historians and real-time dashboards.
• Contribute to the deployment of digital manufacturing and Industry 4.0 capabilities.

System Optimization and Lifecycle Support

• Continuously monitor and enhance automation system performance to reduce downtime and optimize throughput.
• Manage lifecycle of automation assets including upgrades, obsolescence planning, and backups.
• Provide detailed documentation including Functional Design Specifications (FDS), software versioning, and change logs.

Cross-Functional Collaboration and Governance

• Work closely with Process Control Engineers, Maintenance, Quality, IT/OT, and Manufacturing Execution teams to ensure automation reliability.
• Ensure adherence to corporate standards, cybersecurity policies, and regulatory compliance.
• Provide technical support to site-based automation engineers and contractors.

Project and Commissioning Support

• Lead or support automation scope in capital and improvement projects including FAT/SAT, commissioning, and validation.
• Ensure alignment with standards in electrical, instrumentation, and automation components.
• Work with Engineering and Capital Projects teams to ensure seamless integration of automation elements.

Skills, Experience & Education    
Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Mechatronics, Automation, or Control Systems Engineering
• Postgraduate qualifications or certifications in automation, industrial networks, or digital manufacturing are advantageous
• Certified training in automation platforms is preferred

Experience

• 5–7 years of experience in process automation within a manufacturing or industrial environment, preferably in the beverage, FMCG, or food sector
• Hands-on experience with PLC/HMI programming, control systems commissioning, and system integration
• Exposure to multi-site support or corporate automation roles is beneficial
• Experience working on automation scopes within capital projects

Skills

• Proficiency in programming and troubleshooting PLCs and HMIs
• Experience with SCADA systems and integration with MES/ERP systems
• Understanding of industrial communication protocols
• Strong skills in process data analysis, automation reporting, and system diagnostics
• Familiarity with version control systems, structured logic development, and documentation best practices
• Awareness of safety instrumented systems and relevant industrial standards (e.g., ISA-88, ISA-95)
• Collaboration and stakeholder management skills for effective cross-functional engagement

Deadline:1st September,2026