TA Control Systems Engineer

About the role

First Quantum is recruiting a TA Control Systems engineer in Solwezi to support the S3 Control Systems Coordinator. The role covers the reliable operation, optimization, maintenance and technical governance of all S3 Process Plant Control Systems, including Siemens PCS7 DCS, industrial networks and Siemens Gearless Mill Drive (GMD) control systems, in a high-availability mining processing environment.

Key responsibilities

• Promote a zero-harm culture, develop and review SWIs, take part in HIRA/JSA, report incidents and keep statutory records and safety logbooks up to date.
• Install, configure, commission, maintain and optimize Siemens PCS7, S7-400H, Profinet/Profibus, Scalance and OT platforms, keeping accurate as-built documentation and supporting change management.
• Maintain critical spares, run fault finding and root cause analysis, and provide C&I engineering support.
• Support the Electrical Department on GMD control philosophy, excitation systems, cycloconverters, protection schemes, interlocks and protection coordination (MV/LV switchgear, transformers, Siprotech, PADU, AVTs, Sinamics SL150).
• Monitor plant performance via DCS, historian and drive systems, analyze data, tune control loops, alarms and expert strategies, and plan equipment replacement.
• Train team members on PCS7, PLC systems, GMD concepts and protection philosophy, and mentor others.
• Compile activity, cost and performance reports, maintain maintenance and configuration records, and contribute to asset management, cybersecurity and Industry 4.0 initiatives.

Required profile

• Degree or diploma in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Automation or Instrumentation.
• Siemens PCS7 certification.
• Minimum 10-15 years in mining process plant automation and electrical drive systems.
• Valid driver's licence; EIZ and ERB registration preferred.
• Ability to work standby and overtime, in noisy, dusty conditions with varying temperatures, and independently under pressure.

Required skills

• Siemens PCS7, S7-400H PLCs, Siemens Gearless Mill Drives, Profinet and Profibus.
• ABB MV switchgear and protection, Sinamics SL150 drives, Siprotech.
• OPC DA/UA, IIoT and data management systems.
• Knowledge of MV/LV systems, transformers, variable speed drives, closed-loop control, electrical drawings and P&IDs.
• VMware virtualization; Sinema, Sinec and TIA Portal advantageous.
• CMMS proficiency.