Engineer II - Automation & Controls

About the Role

Grande Chilton is seeking an Engineer II, Automation & Controls to play a key part in the startup and ongoing success of our new state-of-the-art cheese manufacturing facility in Chilton, Wisconsin. In this highly collaborative position, you will lead the automation and controls scope of small to mid-sized capital projects, designing, implementing, and optimizing industrial instrumentation, electrical, and control systems that support safe, efficient, and reliable production.

Working with Rockwell Automation platforms, including PLCs, HMI, and integrated control systems, you will help bring innovative manufacturing solutions to life while driving continuous improvement across plant operations. This role offers a unique opportunity to combine hands-on technical expertise with project leadership. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, contractors, and equipment suppliers to develop and execute capital projects, support equipment commissioning and startup activities, and ensure systems meet performance, quality, and regulatory requirements.

The ideal candidate is a proactive engineer with experience in industrial automation, process controls, and manufacturing environments who is excited to help build and optimize a new facility from the ground up while contributing to the future of cheese production.

Requirements

• Associate's degree and five (5) or more years of related experience with controls and instrumentation systems OR Bachelor's degree and three (3) or more years of related engineering experience.
• Experience working with manufacturing facility and design, preferably in food processing.
• Experience and proficiency with industrial automation control systems, in at least three of the following:
  • Motor Control and Power Distribution
  • Industrial Electrical Enclosure design and construction
  • Rockwell Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) (Rockwell ControlLogix, CompactLogix, SLC500, PLC5)
  • Industrial Human Machine Interface systems (Rockwell, Ignition Software, Wonderware)
  • AC Variable Speed Drive Systems and Servo Drive Systems
  • Industrial Control Safety circuits, sensors, and practices
  • Industrial Controls Networks (Ethernet IP, ControlNet, DeviceNet, DH+ and RemoteIO)
  • Microsoft Operating Systems (Desktop and Server Based)
  • Industrial Historian Systems (Rockwell, Wonderware, Ignition)
  • Industrial Reporting Systems (Rockwell VantagePoint, Wonderware)
  • Distributed HMI systems
• Ability to troubleshoot, diagnose problems, and recommend improvements.
• Ability to interpret a variety of technical information, instructions, and details and utilize them to guide methods and procedures.
• Planning and prioritization skills, innovation, multitasking, goal setting, analytical skills, adaptability, and a continuous drive to raise the bar for progress.
• Ability to understand, influence, drive, and negotiate with internal and external customers.
• Advanced PC skills including Windows, Microsoft Office Suite, and engineering and design software.
• Advanced knowledge in mathematical concepts such as fractions, ratios, value analysis, and thermodynamics to resolve engineering designs and problems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Project management certification and/or Professional Engineering license.

About Grande

With more than 80 years of crafting “The Finest Italian Cheeses Money Can Buy,” Grande is a leader in the industry. Whether partnering with independent pizzerias from coast-to-coast or assisting food manufacturing partners with specialty whey ingredient solutions, our commitment to quality is unmatched. While Grande’s reputation for excellence in the market is important, we believe our commitment to workplace and community culture is equally valuable—our Associates come first at Grande.

To complement our industry-leading benefits, Grande emphasizes career growth opportunities while promoting a positive work/life balance and supporting the communities in which we live and work.

Benefits

• Low-cost onsite clinics
• Free onsite fitness center
• Free healthy snacks throughout the facility
• Health and wellness reimbursement program
• Associate cheese purchasing program
• Two-year mentorship program
• Paid Parental Leave

About Chilton

Located in the heart of Calumet County, Chilton blends small-town charm with big opportunity. With a cost of living 5% below the Wisconsin average and housing prices well under national levels, it’s an affordable and attractive place to live, work, and grow your career. Known for its safety, welcoming community, and strong local values, Chilton offers an ideal environment for those seeking to unwind, recharge, and embrace a relaxed and balanced lifestyle.

Chilton features easy access to parks and outdoor recreation, a walkable downtown with local dining and entertainment, and annual festivals that celebrate the area’s local culture and community spirit. As the proud home of Grande’s newest start-up location, Chilton presents a unique opportunity to be part of something new and impactful, joining an organization dedicated to professional excellence, enriching the lives of our Associates, and fulfilling “a purpose greater than ourselves.”