Software Engineer: Multi-Machine Control

Software Engineer – Multi-Machine Control Automation

NOV South Africa is seeking a skilled and highly motivated Software Engineer to support and develop NOV’s Multi-Machine Control (MMC) automation package. The successful candidate will play a critical role in integrating, testing, troubleshooting, and optimizing automation systems across multiple machines and equipment platforms. This position is based in Gqeberha.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to join a collaborative and inclusive team environment
• Exposure to global projects and advanced engineering solutions
• Work on mission-critical systems impacting safety and operations worldwide

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Support the development, integration, and testing of NOV’s Multi-Machine Control (MMC) automation systems.
• Perform system-level testing to ensure multiple machines and subsystems operate together reliably and efficiently.
• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC software using:
• Beckhoff / TwinCat / Structured Text
• Siemens TIA Portal and S7 PLC platforms
• Github
• Diagnose and resolve automation, communication, and process-related issues across interconnected systems.
• Work closely with product experts, commissioning teams, and engineering stakeholders to identify and implement effective solutions.
• Debug and optimize machine control logic, sequencing, and automation performance.
• Support commissioning, validation, and troubleshooting activities both in simulation and live operational environments.
• Analyze machine interaction, process flow, and system behavior to improve reliability and performance.
• Assist with network configuration and industrial communication troubleshooting.
• Develop and maintain clear technical documentation, test procedures, and troubleshooting guides.
• Provide technical support during system integration and customer acceptance testing.
• Perform additional engineering and support tasks as required to meet project and operational goals.

Required Skills And Qualifications

Technical Competencies

• Strong experience in industrial automation systems and machine control integration.
• Advanced PLC programming and troubleshooting skills, particularly with:
• Siemens TIA Portal
• Siemens S7 PLCs
• Allen-Bradley
• Beckhoff Structured Text
• Strong understanding of machine-to-machine interactions and process automation.
• Experience testing and debugging complex automation systems involving multiple machines or subsystems.
• Knowledge of industrial communication networks and protocols.
• Strong troubleshooting and root‑cause analysis capabilities.
• Experience working with electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical system interfaces.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary engineering and product teams.
• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills.

Qualifications

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, Marine Engineering or a related field.
• Relevant industrial automation certifications would be advantageous.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with integrated automation systems in industrial or manufacturing environments.
• Exposure to commissioning and field troubleshooting activities.
• Experience with simulation and test environments is advantageous.
• Experience with high-level programming (C++/C+) is a plus

Physical Requirements

• Comfortable working with complex machinery, automation systems, and testing equipment.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for commissioning or support activities if required.
• Ability to work in an office‑based team environment

Personal Attributes

• Hands‑on and solution‑oriented with a strong sense of ownership
• Able to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team
• Interest in automation and offshore drilling systems
• Willing to share knowledge and continuously learn
• Reliable, structured, and quality‑focused

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