System Engineer

About the role

The Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining DrinkPAK’s automation systems and manufacturing technology platforms. This role serves as the critical bridge between Information Technology (IT) and Engineering—translating business and operational requirements into reliable, scalable automation solutions. The engineer owns the Line Management System (LMS), E80 AGV interface, industrial network utilization, and vendor relationships across automation platforms. This role is a Manufacturing Systems & IT/OT Integration Leader.

Responsibilities

• Own the Line Management System (LMS)—administration, configuration, integration with HR and operations systems, user training, and continuous improvement.
• Manage and optimize the E80 AGV interface and fleet management system; coordinate with E80 and other automation vendors on software updates, integration changes, and troubleshooting.
• Serve as the primary IT/OT bridge: translate Engineering requirements into network and systems specifications; ensure OT systems are properly segmented, secured, and integrated with IT infrastructure.
• Lead implementation of industrial network items including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA interfaces, and machine-level communications across multiple OEM platforms.
• Vendor-manage automation and systems suppliers: evaluate proposals, lead technical negotiations, manage service agreements, and ensure delivery against commitments.
• Develop and maintain system documentation including network diagrams, architecture standards, integration specifications, and operational runbooks.
• Collaborate with the Electrical & Controls Engineer to align network architecture, cybersecurity protocols, and controls change management.
• Support capital project teams by defining systems and network requirements during design phases; participate in commissioning and startup of new lines and facilities.
• Monitor system performance, proactively identify risks, and drive corrective actions to maintain uptime and reliability across all managed platforms.
• Provide technical guidance and training to plant engineering and maintenance teams on systems, network tools, and automation platforms.

Key KPIs & Best-in-Class Targets

• Industrial Network Uptime
• LMS Data Accuracy
• E80 AGV Interface Availability
• System Integration Issue Resolution Lead Time
• IT/OT Cybersecurity Compliance
• Vendor SLA Compliance
• Network Documentation Accuracy (as-builts, topology diagrams, runbooks)
• Capital Project Systems Readiness on Time
• User-Reported System Incidents Resolved
• Safety Performance: Zero recordable incidents

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• At least 5–7+ years of experience in industrial systems engineering, IT/OT integration, or manufacturing technology roles.
• Hands-on experience with industrial networking (VLANs, firewalls, switches, Wi-Fi) in manufacturing environments.
• Experience with Labor Management Systems (LMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), or similar enterprise operations platforms.
• Familiarity with AGV fleet management systems; E80 experience strongly preferred.
• Solid understanding of PLC/HMI/SCADA systems and OT network architecture.
• Strong knowledge of cybersecurity principles as applied to OT environments, including network segmentation and access control.
• Proven vendor management experience: RFP development, contract negotiation, performance monitoring.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and documentation skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively across Engineering, IT, Operations, and external vendor teams.

Benefits

• PPO medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their dependents, 100% paid by the Company
• Cell phone stipend
• Annual discretionary bonus
• 401(k) match program
• Pet insurance
• Life insurance

About DrinkPAK

DrinkPAK is the premiere manufacturer of canned beverages in North America. As producers of the largest and fastest-growing alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages in the world, DrinkPAK provides full-service support for procurement, batching, processing, filling, packaging, warehousing, and distribution. Founded in 2020, DrinkPAK has revolutionized canned beverage manufacturing by offering extreme capacity and format flexibility through cutting-edge technology and a commitment to the best talent in the industry.