Title:  Electronics Technician - Stellenbosch

We Go Places! How about you?
Immediate Superior: Lead: Engineering Control & Automation
Job Grade: 9 
Location: Stellenbosch
Function: Supply Chain
Sub Function: Supply Chain Services
Type of Contract: Permanent
Reference Number: 151123 
Closing Date: 17/03/2026

Applications are invited for the above-mentioned position in Supply Chain Services - Engineering based at the Engineering Centre of Excellence in Stellenbosch. The successful candidate will report to the Lead: Engineering Control & Automation.

The purpose of the position:

The Automation Specialist is a key member of the Engineering Centre of Excellence (CoE) and is responsible for ensuring the reliability, standardisation, PCD security, and continuous improvement of automation and control systems across Heineken Beverages production sites.
The role provides deep technical expertise, ensures compliance with Heineken Global Engineering and Digital & Technology (D&T) standards, supports the deployment of best-in-class automation practices, leads specific automation work streams and projects, strengthens Process Control Domain (PCD) security, and builds the capability of site-based automation teams.
This role serves as a central technical reference point and contributes to delivering safe, efficient, and high-performing brewery operations.

 Key Performance Areas would include, but are not limited to:

Standards, Governance & Compliance
•    Ensure consistent application and maintenance of Heineken Global Engineering Standards, Global Automation Standards, and PCD/OT cybersecurity requirements across all sites.
•    Drive governance processes related to backup and restore procedures, automation asset management, lifecycle planning, and change control (MoC).
•    Maintain and enhance standard PLC, HMI, SCADA, and network architecture templates, functional descriptions, and engineering documentation.
•    Perform periodic compliance audits and coordinate remediation actions with site teams.

Execution of Automation Activities
•    Lead and execute advanced automation engineering activities, including PLC/HMI/SCADA programming, diagnostics, upgrades, and system optimisation.
•    Support OT network infrastructure troubleshooting and optimisation across technologies such as Profinet, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, and OPC UA.
•    Ensure all automation interventions follow appropriate engineering, quality, and safety procedures.
•    Provide technical guidance for instrumentation, control loops, calibration systems, and automation interfaces with MES and digital platforms.

Continuous Improvement (CI)
•    Analyse operational performance to identify automation-based improvement opportunities in OEE, energy efficiency, waste reduction, stability, and quality.
•    Apply systematic problem-solving methodologies (RCFA, 5 Whys) to eliminate recurring automation-related losses.
•    Support TPM initiatives and digital transformation programmes by enabling automation enhancements and data-driven decision making.

Project Leadership & In-House Project Execution
•    Plan and lead automation and OT engineering projects in alignment with CoE PMO and governance frameworks.
•    Prepare scopes of work, evaluate technical solutions, coordinate vendor/contractor activities, and ensure adherence to standards.

Project Leadership & In-House Project Execution
•    Plan and lead automation and OT engineering projects in alignment with CoE PMO and governance frameworks.
•    Prepare scopes of work, evaluate technical solutions, coordinate vendor/contractor activities, and ensure adherence to standards.
•    Perform FAT, SAT, commissioning and formal handover with full documentation.
•    Execute selected automation development and upgrade projects in-house to improve efficiency and reduce reliance on external integrators.

PCD / OT Cybersecurity
•    Implement and maintain PCD cybersecurity controls in accordance with Heineken D&T policies, including access management, network segmentation, patching, and vulnerability remediation.
•    Ensure accurate automation asset inventories and system documentation.
•    Support cross-functional security assessments and incident response activities, ensuring risks are escalated and mitigated promptly.

Deep Technical Problem Solving
•    Serve as the central escalation point for complex automation faults affecting production operations.
•    Lead structured troubleshooting, root cause identification, and sustainable corrective actions for automation-related breakdowns.
•    Provide remote and on-site technical support to ensure minimal downtime and operational impact.

Stakeholder Management & Capability Development
•    Collaborate closely with Engineering Managers, Production, Quality, D&T (OT Security), and site Automation Technicians.
•    Coach and mentor site-based automation resources to uplift capability and embed standardised ways of working.
•    Deliver training on automation standards, cybersecurity practices, and engineering excellence methodologies.
•    Engage openly and transparently with stakeholders at all levels, ensuring alignment and buy-in.

The successful candidate must have the following Skills and experience:

•    National Diploma or BTech\BSc in Electrical\Electronics or Mechatronics Engineering.
•    5–10 years of experience in automation within a manufacturing environment (beverage, brewery, or FMCG preferred). 
•    Strong technical expertise in Siemens (S7/TIA Portal).
•    Experience with industrial communication networks and OT cybersecurity practices.
•    Proven experience in delivering automation projects and collaborating with integrators and OEMs.
  
  

The Company’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply. Heineken Beverages (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd) is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates and values inclusion and diversity. You must be fully eligible to live and work in South Africa to apply.