Ice Cream Controls & Automation Engineer

The Role

We are seeking a skilled Controls & Automation Engineer to support and enhance manufacturing operations through automation, process control, and digital integration. This role is critical in integrating and synchronizing equipment from multiple OEM vendors into a single, seamless ice cream production line, ensuring all systems communicate effectively and operate safely, reliably, and efficiently.

What You'll Be Responsible For

• Design, develop, and maintain PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems aligned with OEM and site team.
• Lead integration and synchronization of equipment from multiple OEM vendors into a seamless end-to-end ice cream production line.
• Align control philosophies, communication protocols, interlocks, and sequencing across all vendor systems.
• Ensure smooth operation of the full production line including startup, shutdown, changeovers, and steady-state performance.
• Cook system interfaces across processing, packaging, utilities, and ancillary equipment to eliminate functional gaps.
• Support and lead automation scope for capital projects, including line installations, upgrades, and expansions.
• Work closely with OEMs, engineering teams, and site stakeholders to deliver fully integrated and optimized systems.
• Support commissioning activities including FAT, SAT, site integration testing, and performance validation.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation, controls, and system integration issues to ensure reliable operations.
• Optimize control logic and system performance to improve efficiency, throughput, and consistency.
• Integrate plant automation systems with MES, ERP systems, historians, and data platforms.
• Support development of digital solutions, data collection systems, and performance dashboards.
• Develop and implement preventive and predictive maintenance strategies for control systems.
• Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) to improve equipment reliability and system uptime.
• Develop and maintain automation documentation including control architecture, electrical drawings, functional design specifications, and SOPs.
• Standardize automation systems and ensure compatibility across different platforms and technologies.
• Support EEM (Early Equipment Management) and MOC processes for equipment and system changes.

Skills, Experiences & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 3–7 years of experience in automation/controls engineering in manufacturing.
• Strong experience with: PLC programming, HMI/SCADA systems, industrial communication networks.
• Proven experience in equipment integration, commissioning, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, and external OEMs.
• Knowledge of MES systems, data historians, and analytics tools (e.g., Power BI).
• Exposure to robotics, vision systems, and advanced automation.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.