Tumi Sakuneka
Electrical Control Technologist
Johannesburg
Summary
High-performing Design Engineer with solid background in software engineering. Skilled in using CAD software, prototyping and testing with keen eye for detail. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams in design, development and implementation of complex projects.
Creative and innovative prospect determined to bring ideas to life through cutting-edge technology and design techniques. Team player with strong problem-solving skills to contribute effectively to projects and teams. Considers unique and unconventional solutions to deliver exceptional results.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
7
7
Years of tertiary education
Work History
System Design Engineer IV
Rockwell Automation
Johannesburg, Gauteng
11.2023 - Current
- Led training sessions for engineers on new software platforms and methodologies essential to modernizing the company''s approach to system design.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve design-related issues, resulting in improved product quality.
- Contributed to the successful completion of high-profile projects by providing expert guidance on optimal design strategies and techniques.
- Established and maintained effective communication with clients and contractors.
- Evaluated vendor proposals for procurement decisions related to components necessary for successful implementation of designed systems.
- Reduced development time by creating efficient design processes, streamlining workflows, and utilizing advanced software tools.
- Collaborated with sales and marketing teams to develop technical documentation and promotional materials highlighting the unique advantages of company''s system designs.
- Presented progress reports to clients during project milestones, ensuring transparency and timely delivery of results.
Control & Automation Engineer III
Hatch
07.2021 - 10.2023
- Trained developers and quality assurance team members in automation programs and processes.
- Collaborated with systems engineers and customers to determine machine requirements and develop specifications for user interface, machine functions and quality control to deliver reliable automation systems.
- Designed automation concepts and protocols for diagnostic testing and simulation purposes, applying Good Automated Manufacturing Practice (GAMP) protocols.
- Revised instrumentation guidelines to address exceptions and provide clarification, where needed.
- Drafted full piping and instrumentation diagram (P&ID) documents for use in the mining industry.
- Created process controls for use in process control system design.
- Monitored pre- and post-production operations for compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines.
- Contributed to client proposals, spearheading compliance with prescribed technical specifications and budgetary concerns.
- Calculated component and instrumentation specifications for conveyor systems, utilizing both off-the-shelf components and custom-built solutions.
- Served as primary point-of-contact for clients through prompt and effective communications.
- Communicated complex technical specifications to non-technical people in easily comprehensible formats.
- Authored workflow diagrams and instructional manuals for Process Control Systems.
- Coordinated with vendors to identify and procure appropriate equipment necessary for project completion.
- Wrote protocols, qualification documents, test plans and test reports for quality assurance purposes.
- Established and maintained effective communication with clients and contractors.
- Prepared detailed reports on electrical systems and components for project review.
- Participated in design specification review meetings, coordinating with inter-departmental teams to align ongoing efforts and overall business goals.
- Participated in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively.
System Design Engineer II
Rockwell Automation
07.2019 - 06.2021
- Designed automation concepts and protocols for diagnostic testing and simulation purposes, applying Good Automated Manufacturing Practice (GAMP) protocols.
- Revised instrumentation guidelines to address exceptions and provide clarification, where needed.
- Communicated complex technical specifications to non-technical people in easily comprehensible formats.
- Designed, developed, and implemented software applications for PLC/SCADA based on analyzed requirements and understanding of industry technical standards.
- Tested programs and databases to identify issues and make necessary modifications.
- Revised, modularized and updated old code bases to modern development standards, reducing operating costs, and improving functionality.
- Participated in software field testing to verify performance of developed projects.
- Designed intuitive graphical user interfaces to improve user experience.
- Mentored junior engineers in best practices for system design, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the team.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve design-related issues, resulting in improved product quality.
Plant C&I Engineer
FFS Refiners
Secunda, Mpumalanga
05.2019 - 07.2019
- Participated in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Resolved problems, improved operations and provided exceptional service.
- Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
Control & Automation Engineer I
Hatch
Johannesburg, Gauteng
02.2016 - 04.2019
- Managed documentation efforts related to the design, installation, and operation of automated systems, ensuring accurate records were maintained for future reference.
- Participated in root cause analysis efforts to resolve complex issues related to automated equipment performance.
- Completed automation of functional and regression testing.
- Leveraged strong programming skills to develop custom scripts for PLCs, HMIs, and other control system components used in automated machines.
- Collaborated with systems engineers and customers to determine machine requirements and develop specifications for user interface, machine functions and quality control to deliver reliable automation systems.
- Worked closely with vendors to ensure timely delivery of high-quality automation components while adhering to budget constraints.
- Supported continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities for enhancing existing automated processes through data-driven analysis and recommendations.
- Optimized production processes for increased productivity through the development of custom automation solutions.
Education
Master of Engineering Management -
University of Johannesburg
Johannesburg 01.2017 - 12.2018
Bachelor of Technology - Electrical Engineering
University of Johannesburg
Johannesburg 01.2015 - 12.2015
National Diploma - Electrical Engineering
University of Johannesburg
Johannesburg 01.2009 - 12.2012
Skills
Knowledge of mining and process plant operation
Software Development Lifecycle
Control Systems Understanding
Technical Solution Development
Automation Design
Proficient in Ladder Logic, FBD, SFC and Structured Text
Timeline
System Design Engineer IV
Rockwell Automation
11.2023 - Current
Control & Automation Engineer III
Hatch
07.2021 - 10.2023
System Design Engineer II
Rockwell Automation
07.2019 - 06.2021
Plant C&I Engineer
FFS Refiners
05.2019 - 07.2019
Master of Engineering Management -
University of Johannesburg
01.2017 - 12.2018
Control & Automation Engineer I
Hatch
02.2016 - 04.2019
Bachelor of Technology - Electrical Engineering
University of Johannesburg
01.2015 - 12.2015
National Diploma - Electrical Engineering
University of Johannesburg
01.2009 - 12.2012