Ice Cream Controls & Automation Engineer

Job Title

Controls & Automation Engineer

Covington, TN

This is a full-time project-based assignment that is anticipated to last 2 years. The selected individual will be eligible to apply to available internal opportunities following completion of the project, although no continued employment is guaranteed.

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. The role will support design, integration, commissioning, startup, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing systems.

• 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 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.
• Coordinate 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.
• Provide technical support to operations and maintenance teams for automation‑related issues.
• Develop and implement preventive and predictive maintenance strategies for control systems.
• Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) to improve equipment reliability and system uptime.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, waste reduction, and operational efficiency.
• 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.

• Thinks end‑to‑end and takes ownership for results.
• Is comfortable working in a fast‑moving, evolving organization.
• Values collaboration, clarity and low‑ego ways of working.

• 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.

• Market‑competitive pay and performance related rewards.
• Flexible ways of working.
• Support for health, wellbeing and life outside of work.
• Time off to rest and recharge.
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities.
• Medical, dental and (where applicable) vision coverage.
• Health and wellbeing support, including employee assistance programs and wellness initiatives.
• Health‑related savings and spending…