The Automation Engineer will be responsible for optimizing process control systems across our manufacturing plants. This role involves designing, programming, and maintaining automated systems, including PLCs, SCADA systems, and Operator Interface Panels, while ensuring adherence to established programming standards. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical background, excellent communication skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including process engineers, plant managers, and operators, to drive efficiency and innovation in production processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Automation System Design: Develop and implement automated systems tailored for diverse manufacturing and production environments.
• Collaboration: Lead discussions with leadership and stakeholders to define automation capabilities and objectives.
• Project Management: Create and manage project plans to guide automation initiatives from conception through to successful implementation.
• System Support: Enhance and maintain existing automation systems through upgrades to both components and processes.
• Programming: Program and configure PLCs, SCADA systems, and Operator Interface Panels (e.g., Red Lion Controls G308) for effective process control, particularly in yeast fermentation plants.
• Technical Documentation: Provide comprehensive documentation for control systems, including electrical diagrams, P&IDs, sequence descriptions, and operational procedures.
• Control Architecture Design: Design and implement control architectures based on specific process requirements.
• Field Support: Assist electricians and technicians in the installation and troubleshooting of field instrumentation and PLC systems.
• Technical Assistance: Offer technical support for all automated processes across the plant.
• Compliance: Ensure all automation systems meet safety regulations, industry standards, and internal policies.
• Testing & Optimization: Develop and execute testing procedures to ensure system functionality, reliability, and accuracy. Continuously analyze system performance to suggest improvements and reduce downtime.
• Security: Implement and maintain security protocols to safeguard automation systems from cyber threats.
• Training & Documentation: Provide training to plant operators and staff on automation systems while maintaining up-to-date system documentation.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in software, electrical, or mechanical engineering, or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in the following:
• PLC programming (SFC, function blocks, ladder logic, structured text)
• SCADA system configuration and graphic page design
• Ethernet-based protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP)
• Instrumentation and control (e.g., 4-20mA analog instruments, variable frequency drives, flow meters)
• Strong knowledge of Windows OS and MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, etc.)
• Industrial communication networks (Ethernet, Modbus, Profibus)
• Project management, including managing multiple automation projects simultaneously
• Technical Expertise: Proficiency with automation software platforms such as Rockwell Automation, Siemens, or Schneider Electric.

Preferred Skills & Qualifications:

• Electrical/Mechanical Background: Experience in both electrical and mechanical systems.
• Industry Experience: Familiarity with process control in the food industry.
• Additional Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP).
• PLC Expertise: Experience with Schneider Electric Modicon PLC systems.