Search Partners
Industrial Automation & OT Recruitment Based in Melbourne
With a head office in Melbourne and clients across every state, we provide structured recruitment solutions tailored to critical industries, helping businesses secure skilled professionals through transparent, outcome-focused processes.
HIRING SOLUTIONS
National Executive Search & Recruitment Experts in Operational Technology, Industrial Automation & Digital Transformation
Search Partners is a Melbourne-based executive search and recruitment firm with national reach. Since 2010, we have delivered permanent and contract recruitment services across Australia — including Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Darwin, and Hobart.
We partner with owner/operators, end users, system integrators, and OEMs to provide executive search, permanent recruitment, and contractor resourcing across infrastructure, energy, water, utilities, industrial manufacturing, mining, and automation environments.
Our Recruitment Services Cover High-Demand Technical Domains
- Electrical, Instrumentation & Control Systems Engineering
- OT Networks & Infrastructure
- OT Cyber Security
- Data Historians (e.g. OSIsoft PI)
- Real-Time & SCADA Data Systems
- PLC / SCADA / DCS Development, Commissioning & Support
- Automation Project & Program Management
- OT Leadership
We understand the convergence of IT and OT, and the specialised skillsets required to manage it. With 250+ placements and decades of experience, we have built a reputation for delivering where others fall short, supported by deep industry knowledge, proven processes, and a robust candidate network built specifically for the OT sector.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Industrial Automation recruitment?
Industrial Automation recruitment is the process of sourcing, screening, and placing candidates in roles related to automation technologies used in industrial environments. These roles often involve working with systems such as PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), DCS (Distributed Control Systems), robotics, and process control equipment. Recruitment in this field focuses on hiring skilled professionals like automation engineers, control systems technicians, OT cybersecurity experts, and SCADA developers who can design, maintain, and optimise automated systems across industries such as manufacturing, energy, mining, oil & gas, and water treatment. As automation becomes more integral to operational efficiency and safety, demand for specialised talent in this area continues to grow.
What skills are required for jobs in Industrial Automation?
Jobs in Industrial Automation require a combination of technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Candidates typically need a strong understanding of control systems (PLC, SCADA, DCS), electrical or mechatronic engineering, and industrial networking protocols such as Modbus, Ethernet/IP, or Profibus. Experience with programming logic controllers, configuring HMI (Human-Machine Interface) systems, and using automation software like Rockwell, Siemens, or Schneider Electric platforms is highly desirable. Additionally, familiarity with safety standards (e.g., ISO, IEC), OT cybersecurity, data logging systems (such as OSIsoft PI), and hands-on troubleshooting are key competencies. Soft skills like communication, documentation, and teamwork are also essential, especially for roles in project-based environments or multi-disciplinary teams.
What industries hire Industrial Automation professionals?
Industrial Automation professionals are in demand across a wide range of sectors that rely on automated systems to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity. Common industries include:
- Manufacturing: Automotive, food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods use automation for assembly lines, packaging, and quality control.
- Energy: Power generation, battery storage, renewables, and utilities require automation for system control, monitoring, and optimisation.
- Mining: Automation supports safety systems, remote operations, materials handling, and fleet coordination in both surface and underground mining.
- Oil & Gas: SCADA and DCS systems manage upstream, midstream, and downstream processes, from drilling to refining and distribution.
- Water & Wastewater: Treatment plants use automated control for filtration, chemical dosing, and system diagnostics.
- Logistics and Warehousing: Automation is key for material handling, robotics, and real-time tracking in high-volume facilities.
- Data Centres: Building and linking controls, OT cybersecurity, and automation systems are critical to ensuring uptime, reliability, and energy efficiency in mission-critical environments.
As digital transformation and Industry 4.0 initiatives expand, automation roles are also emerging in newer sectors like data centres, agriculture, and smart infrastructure.
ROLE-SPECIFIC SEARCH DELIVERY
Process-Based Talent Acquisition
Search Partners supports clients with recruitment strategies that accommodate industry regulation, systems integration, and organisational growth. Services are tailored for technical, mid-senior, and executive level appointments across high-compliance sectors, focusing on roles such as SCADA engineers, OT network analysts, commissioning managers, and project leads. Each engagement follows a documented search method that includes candidate briefings, competency validation, and clear stakeholder communication.
Projects often involve permanent recruitment, internal role definition, or expansion into emerging functions such as digital infrastructure or renewable systems management. Delivery models are adapted to suit organisational structures, whether it be facility-based, multi-site, or remote. With Australia-wide reach, Search Partners works across industries requiring aligned workforce strategies, precision in candidate fit, and consistency in onboarding documentation. Recruitment support is available to businesses requiring a dependable and industry-aware hiring process.
