Volkswagen Group Africa Robotic & Vision Systems Specialist Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

Volkswagen Group Africa, a leading global mobility company, is actively seeking a highly motivated and experienced Robotic & Vision Systems Specialist. The company is driven by innovation, quality, and its dedicated people, operating sites in Kariega, Centurion, and Sandton. They are committed to producing vehicles and mobility solutions that deliver performance, safety, and sustainability.

This specialist role is a key part of the Production team, based specifically in the Paint Shop in Kariega. The successful candidate will be instrumental in maintaining, optimising, and supporting complex robotic and vision systems. This position is vital for ensuring maximum equipment availability, improving operational efficiency, and driving continuous technological advancements within the facility. Joining Volkswagen Group Africa means contributing to a team that is building mobility for generations, responsibly and sustainably.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for this exciting opportunity, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Minimum Qualifications:
• Degree or National Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Certified Paint robot training (Durr / Fanuc).
• Certified PLC training (Siemens Step 7/TIA Portal).
• Work Experience:
• Minimum of 8 years' post-graduate experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Expert knowledge and experience with robotic paint application equipment.
• Extensive experience in industrial automation integration (Robotics, PLCs, VSD’s, SCADA systems).
• Highly experienced in fault-finding, troubleshooting, and optimising paint robots.
• Project management experience.
• Proven ability to design and implement robust preventative maintenance plans.
• Technical & Behavioural Competencies:
• Advanced knowledge of Industrial paint Robots paint application equipment.
• Good understanding of paints and application techniques.
• Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting capability (Siemens Step 7/TIA Portal).
• Extensive knowledge of SCADA systems, motion control, and drive technologies.
• Basic Machine Vision Systems.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Results-driven with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

The Robotic & Vision Systems Specialist will be responsible for a range of critical tasks, including:

• Maintaining and optimising robotic paint application systems to ensure reliable production performance.
• Ensuring paint robots consistently produce optimum paint quality.
• Troubleshooting and resolving all robotic, automation, and vision-related issues promptly.
• Supporting the implementation of new technologies and automation projects.
• Providing essential technical expertise and training for maintenance and engineering teams.
• Managing system upgrades, modifications, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensuring adequate spare parts planning and effective equipment lifecycle management.
• Developing technical specifications and business cases for future investments.
• Supporting production and maintenance teams during breakdown situations, which will include standby duties.

What the Work Involves

As a Robotic & Vision Systems Specialist, you will be a hands-on expert within the Paint Shop in Kariega, focusing daily on the intricate world of automated paint application. Your work will involve actively maintaining and optimising the robotic systems that are crucial for vehicle production, constantly striving to enhance their efficiency and ensure the highest paint quality.

You will spend a significant portion of your time troubleshooting and resolving complex issues related to robotics, automation, and vision systems, acting as a vital support for both production and maintenance teams, especially during unexpected breakdowns, which may require standby duties. Beyond immediate problem-solving, you will contribute to the future by supporting new technology integration, managing system upgrades, and developing technical specifications for future investments. You will work closely with maintenance and engineering teams, providing training and sharing your expertise to uplift the overall technical capability within the plant.

How to Apply

If you are a dynamic and proactive professional ready to contribute to Volkswagen Group Africa’s success, please submit your application by 29th September 2026.

To apply, please email your application to: ssf.recruitment.vwsa.r.uit@vwsa.co.za

Ensure your application includes:

• An updated CV.
• Certified copies of all your qualifications.
• A certified copy of your ID document.

Important Note: Applications submitted without all the required documents or received after the deadline will not be considered. Volkswagen Group Africa is committed to achieving and sustaining an equitable and representative workforce, and preference will be given in line with their Employment Equity Plan.