DCS Project Engineer
Valmet · On-site
Valmet is a global technology company delivering solutions and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries, as well as selected process industries. We help our customers improve their production processes, efficiency, reliability, and sustainability through advanced technologies, automation, and services.
In South Africa, Valmet Automation Division has a strong and established presence, supporting customers for decades with advanced automation solutions and lifecycle services. Our primary customer base is within the pulp and paper industry, where we have built long-standing relationships and a strong installed base.
We are now looking for a DCS Project Engineer to join our Valmet Automation team in South Africa, based in Durban. In this role, you will report to the Service Manager, Automation, South Africa, and work closely with customers and colleagues across the organization.
The position is opening as part of a planned retirement within the team, creating an excellent opportunity to join an experienced and highly skilled organization, build on your existing automation expertise, and develop into a trusted technical partner for our customers.
Your role
As a DCS Project Engineer, you will be responsible for the engineering, commissioning, maintenance support, and lifecycle activities related to Valmet’s Distributed Control System (DCS) solutions.
You will work closely with customers and colleagues across the organization to deliver automation projects, provide technical support, and ensure reliable system performance throughout the customer lifecycle.
The role offers broad exposure to industrial automation environments and the opportunity to gradually expand your expertise into related technologies, including Quality Control Systems (QCS), system integration, and cybersecurity.
Main responsibilities:
Perform application and project engineering activities for DCS projects
Configure, test, commission, and maintain automation systems
Support customer projects from engineering through start-up and commissioning
Participate in Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT)
Provide technical support and troubleshooting for installed systems
Prepare and maintain technical documentation
Support service agreements and ongoing customer activities
Work closely with Project Managers, Service Engineers, and Sales teams
Contribute to technical evaluations and quotation preparation when required
Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and contribute to knowledge-sharing within the team
What we are looking for
A degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, Process Control, or a related field
At least 5 years of experience in industrial automation, control systems, process control, or project engineering
Hands-on experience with Distributed Control Systems (DCS); knowledge of Valmet DNA or DNAe is preferred
Strong technical problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
A customer-oriented approach and the ability to build effective working relationships
The ability to work independently while also contributing effectively to a collaborative team
Good communication skills in English
A proactive attitude and willingness to continuously learn and develop new competencies
Additional requirements
Based in, or willing to relocate to, the Durban area
Willingness to travel regularly between the Durban office and customer sites, particularly in the Durban and Richards Bay areas
Availability for occasional travel to other customer locations within South Africa
Willingness to participate in on-call support rotations when required
Why join Valmet?
At Valmet, you will have the opportunity to work with advanced and continuously evolving automation technologies while developing your expertise within a global technology company.
We offer:
A structured onboarding program and technical training
Opportunities to develop expertise across DCS, QCS, system integration, and cybersecurity
An international and collaborative working environment
Career development opportunities within a global organization
The opportunity to work with an advanced technology platform that continues to evolve and innovate
A permanent position
What will help you succeed
Success at Valmet is not only about technical expertise. We also value the behaviors that help us work effectively with our customers and colleagues.
Our Leadership Principles guide how we lead, collaborate, and create value together:
Take accountability – Take ownership, set clear expectations, and follow through
Lead with courage – Champion change, explore new ideas, and learn from experience
Build on trust – Listen to understand, communicate openly, and create a safe environment for collaboration
Collaborate for growth – Work across boundaries, value diverse perspectives, and focus on creating customer value
Application deadline: October 14, 2026
Information about our Talent Acquisition Process
Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Selected candidates will be invited to a preliminary online interview.
The recruitment process may then include up to three additional interviews.
When Everything Works Together
Valmet is where the best talent from a wide variety of backgrounds comes together. With over 18,500 professionals around the world, we are the leading global developer and supplier of technologies, automation and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries, and we serve an even wider base of process industries with our automation systems and flow control solutions. Our commitment to moving our customers’ performance forward requires creativity, technological innovations, service know-how and, above all, teamwork.
Join the team! www.valmet.com/careers