Automation Projects Engineer

About the role

Automation engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing automated systems and solutions to support new manufacturing or operational initiatives across North America plants. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams—including engineering, production, and IT—to identify automation opportunities, define technical requirements, and ensure seamless integration of equipment and controls into new processes or production lines. Key responsibilities include selecting appropriate technologies, programming PLCs or robotics, managing project timelines, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring systems meet safety and quality standards. The engineer also plays a critical role in validating performance, supporting startup activities, and driving continuous improvement from concept to handover. Strong analytical, technical, and project management skills are essential, as well as the ability to adapt to evolving technologies and dynamic project environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation and controls scope for new equipment, production lines, and manufacturing initiatives.
• Design, program, and deploy PLCs, HMIs, robotics, vision systems, VFDs, and industrial networks.
• Define project scope, technical specifications, budgets, timelines, and resource plans.
• Manage multiple automation projects while ensuring delivery against cost, schedule, and performance targets.
• Drive RFQs, vendor selection, and coordination of design reviews, FATs, SATs, installation, and startup.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, IT, Quality, and Maintenance for system integration.
• Support machine connectivity, data acquisition, and integration with MES and IT platforms.
• Identify continuous improvement opportunities to enhance cycle time, OEE, and cost efficiency.
• All other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechatronics, Electronics, Automation Engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience as a Controls/Automation Engineer in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong expertise in PLC programming (Allen Bradley, Beckhoff, Omron, Siemens).
• Experience with industrial networks such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, and IO‑Link.
• Hands‑on knowledge of robotics, vision systems, VFDs,