Summary:

Job Title: Automation Engineer

Location: Hattiesburg, MS

Duration: Perm Role

Shift: 1st shift (Hours Monday – Friday, 8am to 5pm)

Purpose: The Automation Engineer is responsible for the optimization of process control systems in our plants. The successful candidate will design, program, and maintain automated systems, including PLCs, SCADA systems, and Operator Interface Panels, while adhering to established programming standards. This role requires a collaborative mindset, technical expertise, and strong communication skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including process engineers, plant managers, and operators, to drive innovation and efficiency in production environments.

Essential Functions:

Design and implement automated systems for use in diverse manufacturing and production environments.

Lead collaborative discussions with leadership and key stakeholders to determine automation capabilities and goals.

Create project plans to guide automation projects from conception to final implementation.

Support existing automation technology with component and process upgrades.

Program and configure PLCs required for process control in yeast fermentation plants.

Program and configure SCADA systems.

Program and configure Operator Interface Panels (eg, Red Lion Controls G308).

Provide technical documentation for control systems, including electrical diagrams, P&IDs, sequence descriptions, and operational procedures.

Design control architecture based on process requirements.

Assist and monitor electricians and technicians for installing and troubleshooting field instrumentation and PLC systems.

Provide technical assistance to plants for all automated processes.

Ensure all automation systems comply with safety regulations, industry standards, and company policies.

Develop and execute testing procedures for control systems to ensure functionality, reliability, and accuracy.

Implement and maintain security measures to protect automation systems from cyber threats.

Analyze system performance and recommend updates or improvements to optimize efficiency and reduce downtime.

Provide training plant operators and staff on the use of automation systems and maintain up-to-date documentation.

Technical skills:

Bachelor’s degree in software, electrical, or mechanical engineering, or equivalent experience

At least 7 years of experience in: PLC programming using SFC, function blocks, ladder, and structured text languages. SCADA system configuration and graphic page design

Ability to configure Ethernet-based protocols, such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, etc.

Sound knowledge of instrumentation and control (e.g., 4-20mA analog instruments, variable frequency drives, flow meters, flow control actuators)

Strong understanding of Windows OS and MS Office software (Excel, Word, etc.)

Project management skills, including managing multiple automation projects simultaneously

Proficiency in setting up and troubleshooting industrial communication networks (e.g., Ethernet, Modbus, Profibus)

Experience with programming platforms such as Rockwell Automation, Siemens, or Schneider Electric software suites.

An asset:

Electrical and mechanical background

Experience in the food industry process control

Experience with Schneider-Electric Modicon PLC

Relevant certifications, such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP)