Technician/Engineer: Instrumentation, Software and Control at AECI Limited

Roles and Responsibilities

• Perform maintenance, troubleshooting, fault-finding, and repair of PLC, SCADA, DCS and related automation systems.
• Ensure all control systems and software are running optimally to support safe and continuous plant operations.
• Update and maintain system backups, control logic, and configuration documentation.
• Develop, test, implement and optimise automation code and control logic for process improvements.
• Conduct software modifications in line with engineering standards and change control processes.
• Support system upgrades, patches, and integration with new hardware/software.
• Provide technical support on instrumentation, sensors, transmitters, and field devices.
• Assist in plant commissioning, loop checks, and instrument calibration routines.
• Collaborate closely with production teams to resolve breakdowns and ensure minimal downtime.
• Adhere to all safety, quality, and regulatory requirements relevant to explosives and chemical manufacturing.
• Ensure control systems meet statutory and internal compliance standards.
• Maintain cybersecurity controls and user access governance for automation systems.
• Drive process automation improvements and optimisation initiatives.
• Analyse plant control system performance and recommend enhancements.
• Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) for breakdowns, incidents, and system failures.
• Support Engineering, Production, SHEQ, and Maintenance teams with technical inputs.
• Assist with the implementation of new projects, including commissioning, testing, and training.
• Work with OEMs, contractors, and vendors on advanced automation solutions

Qualifications and Experience

• National Diploma in Electrical Engineering (Light Current), Control & Instrumentation, or Automation Engineering.
• Trade Test (Instrumentation/Electronics) is an advantage.
• PLC/SCADA certification (e.g., Siemens, Allen Bradley, Wonderware) preferred.
• 3–5 years’ experience in control systems and automation in a chemical/manufacturing/mining environment.
• Experience with PLC, SCADA, DCS, and industrial communication networks.
• Exposure to high-risk operations (chemicals, explosives, nitrates) is an added advantage.
• PLC programming (Siemens/Allen Bradley or equivalent)
• SCADA configuration and administration
• Instrumentation principles
• Control system networking (Profibus, Ethernet, Modbus, etc.)
• Ability to interpret P&IDs, control drawings, loop diagrams, and electrical schematics

Key Competencies

• Technical problem-solving
• Analytical thinking Planning and decision-making
• Communication
• Project Management
• Safety Awareness