Automation Engineer- Plant

Be a part of our mission! As a world leader in creating comfortable, sustainable, and efficient climate solutions for buildings, homes, and transportation, it's our responsibility to put the planet first. For us at Trane Technologies, and through our businesses including Trane® and Thermo King, sustainability is not just how we do business—it is our business.

Where Is The Work
On-Site (5 days) in Newberry, SC. Sponsorship is not offered for this role.

About the role

We are seeking a motivated engineer with experience in process automation, manufacturing systems, and digital tools to support and improve operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role will help bridge operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) by developing, supporting, and optimizing automation solutions across manufacturing and business systems. The ideal candidate will have experience with platforms such as Ignition, SharePoint/Power Platform, and MES tools such as Apriso, with exposure to data analytics, Python, SQL, or AI-enabled solutions considered a plus.

Responsibilities

• Support the development and implementation of digital and automation solutions for manufacturing operations.
• Design, maintain, and improve automation workflows that increase efficiency, quality, and reliability.
• Assist with integration between shop-floor systems, MES platforms, business applications, and reporting tools.
• Implement and support MES solutions, including work order management, traceability, quality tracking, and production data collection.
• Build and support solutions using tools such as Ignition, SharePoint/Power Platform, SQL, Python, REST APIs, and related technologies.
• Work with operations, engineering, IT, and other cross-functional teams to identify automation opportunities and deliver practical solutions.
• Troubleshoot automation and system issues, perform root-cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
• Help maintain system security, user access, documentation, and backup/recovery processes.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, standard operating procedures, and user training materials.
• Train operators and team members on implemented systems and process improvements.
• Support continuous improvement efforts through data analysis, reporting, and process optimization.
• Stay informed on emerging digital and automation technologies, including AI-enabled tools, and evaluate opportunities for future use.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Industrial Technology, or a related technical field preferred.
• Relevant experience in manufacturing automation, controls, MES, industrial systems, or related areas may be considered in place of a degree, where appropriate.
• Experience with one or more of the following is preferred: Ignition, Apriso, SharePoint, Power Platform, SQL, Python, or other automation/reporting tools.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as OPC UA, MQTT, or Modbus is a plus.
• Understanding of networking fundamentals such as IP addressing, subnetting, and port management is preferred.
• Exposure to data analytics, scripting, or AI/ML concepts is a plus, but not required.
• Relevant AI certifications, along with proven knowledge and practical application of AI capabilities, are strongly preferred.

Skills

• Demonstrates a strong commitment to safety.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Willingness to learn new tools, systems, and technologies.
• Customer-focused and results-driven mindset.

Pay

Annual base salary range: $60,000.00 - $109,340.00. Compensation is salary-based and may vary depending on factors such as seniority, merit, geographic location, education, experience, travel requirements, and union designation.

Benefits

• Benefits kick in on day one for you and your family, including health insurance and holistic wellness programs with generous incentives.
• Family-building benefits, including fertility coverage and adoption/surrogacy assistance.
• 401K match up to 6%, plus an additional 2% core contribution (total up to 8% company contribution).
• Paid time off: 15 vacation days, 9 paid holidays, 3 floating holidays, sick leave, and additional options for volunteer and parental leave.
• Educational and training opportunities through company programs, tuition assistance, and student debt support.

Note: Benefit offerings may vary depending on Collective Bargaining Agreements and local/state regulations.