Title:  Field Service Technician: Automation - Stellenbosch

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Immediate Superior: Workshop Manager 
Job Grade: 9
Location: Stellenbosch
Function: Supply Chain
Sub Function: Engineering Centre of Excellence
Type of Contract: Permanent
Reference Number: 154118 
Closing Date: 25/03/2026

Applications are invited for the above-mentioned position in Supply Chain - Engineering based at the Engineering Centre of Excellence in Stellenbosch. The successful candidate will report to the Workshop Manager.

The purpose of the position:

The Field Service Automation Technician provides high-level specialised field support across production sites, focusing on complex fault resolution, upgrades, improvements, packaging line performance optimisation, inspection & coding systems, and adherence to Heineken Global Engineering and D&T standards.

This role serves as a central technical reference point and contributes to delivering safe, efficient, and high-performing production 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 templates for PLC, HMI, SCADA, and network architectures, 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.
•    Conduct packaging line audits, line balancing, throughput optimisation, inspection & coding (recipes, rejection logic). 

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.
•    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 in Electrical/Electronic 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 Field service.
• Willingness to Travel - Minimum 50%.

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.