Ice Cream Controls & Automation Engineer

Job Title

Controls & Automation Engineer

Covington, TN

Full‑time, project‑based assignment anticipated to last 2 years. Eligible to apply to internal opportunities following completion of the project; no continued employment is guaranteed.

Support and enhance manufacturing operations through automation, process control, and digital integration. Integrate and synchronize equipment from multiple OEM vendors into a unified, safe, reliable, and efficient ice cream production line. Design, integrate, commission, and continuously improve automated manufacturing systems.

• Design, develop, and maintain PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems aligned with OEM and site teams.
• Lead integration and synchronization of multi‑vendor equipment into a seamless end‑to‑end line.
• Align control philosophies, communication protocols, interlocks, and sequencing across all vendor systems.
• Ensure smooth operation of the full line, including startup, shutdown, changeovers, and steady‑state performance.
• Coordinate system interfaces across processing, packaging, utilities, and ancillary equipment.
• Support and lead automation scope for capital projects, 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.
• Optimize control logic and system performance to improve efficiency, throughput, and consistency.
• Integrate plant automation systems with MES, ERP, 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 of 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 a related field.
• 3–7 years of experience in automation/controls engineering in manufacturing.
• Strong experience with PLC programming, HMI/SCADA systems, and 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 vision coverage (where applicable).
• Health‑related savings and spending accounts.
• Retirement savings program with competitive matching.
• Additional employee perks such as corporate discounts and commuter or learning support.

The Magnum Ice Cream Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We embrace diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can do their best work regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics.