Lead Automation, Sensing and Control Engineer

Role And Responsibilities

• Design, develop, prototype and test innovative automated solutions and robotic systems and components.
• Integrate hardware, software, and sensors (such as LiDAR, cameras, and IMUs) into automation platforms as defined by roadmap actions.
• Program robots for specific tasks, including motion control, path planning, and autonomous navigation.
• Integrate all forms of industrial automation devices into plc logic (e.g. motion, vision, touch, pneumatic, mechanical, electrical).
• Conduct simulations and tests to validate the performance and reliability of automation systems under real-world manufacturing production conditions.
• Support design reviews with internal stakeholders and integration partners to determine equipment requirements.
• Ensure compliance with industry safety and regulatory standards as well as GE Vernova EHS requirements throughout the development and deployment process.
• Perform as the lead point of contact with controls equipment OEM and parts vendors.
• Analyze IT system/machinery controls failures for indications of assignable causes, identify and recommend corrective actions, and work with maintenance team and/or external suppliers to implement corrective action.
• Perform routine systems maintenance including but not limited to: Installing patches on servers, adding new equipment to FMS, creating HMIs, managing system tags, managing access to Historian and FMS, managing access to jump boxes via Bitvise, and maintaining firewall rules.
• Document and revised technical specifications, Process Maps, Electro-Mechanical Drawing, test plans, and maintenance procedures.
• Aid in the integration of automation and AI into manufacturing systems as needed.
• Work projects to a specific schedule and budget, providing timely communication to key stakeholders.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., EHS, Manufacturing Engineers, Design Engineering, Process Engineers, Quality, Materials, Industrialization, Operations and Sourcing) to define project requirements and ensure seamless integration. Provide effective communication to appropriate team members when needed.
• Contribute to Kaizen, Lean, Built-in-Quality initiatives, Management of Change, Safety Risk Assessments and LOTO on all designed equipment.
• Work effectively in a fast-paced environment while embracing and driving positive change inside and outside the organization when appropriate.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university or college in: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or a related field.
• Must have a minimum of 6 years of industrial experience in designing & deploying factory automation and robotics.
• Proficient in control networks including: Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet, MTConnect, OPC-UA, Modbus, ProfiNet, Profibus.
• Expertise with PLCs, sensor/actuator integration, HMIs, SCADA, robotics, FMS.
• Proficient in industrial communication protocols including: Fieldbus, Ethernet, Serial, and Wireless.
• Proficient in plant manufacturing systems, electrical/controls technology in a production and processing environment, vision and barcode scanning, servo controllers, speed variator, and systems, and analog/digital signals.
• Proficient in programming languages such as C++, Python.
• Experience with Allen Bradley, Rockwell Automation, Roboguide.
• Experience in electrical/controls technology in a production and processing environment.
• Functional knowledge of robotics setup, application and manipulation.
• Functional knowledge Electrical panel layouts.
• Ability to understand, interpret, and create written technical information (i.e. Engineering drawings, electro-mechanical schematics, ladder logic, machine manuals, and standard operating procedures).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a proven ability to work effectively in team environments.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and committed to continuous improvement.
• A strong grasp of control theory, kinematics, and dynamics is expected.
• Effective problem solving and analytical skills with a focus on applied automation and robotic programming, control, and hardware issues.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze and resolve problems. Ability to document, plan, market, and execute programs. Established project management skills.
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this role.
• Must be willing to work on-site in Niskayuna, NY.
• Export Control: Because of the specific categories of data handled by GE Vernova Advanced Research and the structure of our work environment, we are unable to accommodate employment of persons while they are considered nationals of countries subject to comprehensive restrictions under the U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR), 15 CFR Section 746 et seq. (currently North Korea, Syria, Iran, and Cuba). Note: Citizens of these countries who have either “U.S. person” status under U.S. export control laws or subsequent citizenship or permanent residency from a non-restricted country can be considered.