Senior Automation Engineer

Our Mission

At Niagara, we’re looking for Team Members who want to be part of achieving our mission to provide our customers the highest quality most affordable bottled water.

• Work in an entrepreneurial and dynamic environment with a chance to make an impact.
• Develop lasting relationships with great people.
• Have the opportunity to build a satisfying career.

We offer competitive compensation and benefits packages for our Team Members.

The Senior Automation Engineer applies advanced engineering techniques to design, analyze, test, maintain, and improve automated systems, controls architectures, and manufacturing processes. This role focuses on PLC programming, SCADA development, electrical systems, and process optimization to enhance operational efficiency, reliability, and scalability.

Analyzes, develops, and evaluates automation systems, improves existing infrastructure, and leads the development of new automation projects. Designs control architectures, develops electrical schematics, supports field installations, and manages projects from concept through commissioning. Applies engineering principles within the scope of automation and controls assignments.

• Creates and manages automation systems to streamline manufacturing processes, including controls architecture, PLC programs, and HMI applications.
• Develops, programs, and maintains PLC systems (Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, Beckhoff) for industrial automation and process control.
• Designs, develops, and supports SCADA/HMI systems (Factory Talk View, Ignition) for real‑time monitoring, control, and data visualization.
• Leads automation system development and commissioning for new and existing production lines.
• Performs electrical design including panel layouts, wiring, and review of schematics and P&IDs (Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams).
• Manages multiple complex automation and controls projects simultaneously across manufacturing systems.
• Initiates and performs cost analysis and technical feasibility studies for automation improvements and new system implementations.
• Collaborates with external vendors, system integrators, suppliers, and internal teams to drive efficient project execution.
• Develops and applies technical expertise to establish credibility with operations, engineering, and leadership teams.
• Creates detailed technical documentation, system architecture diagrams, and business presentations for stakeholders and executives.
• Translates data from SCADA systems, PLCs, and databases into actionable insights and recommendations.
• Analyzes manufacturing processes and improves system efficiency, uptime, and cost performance.
• Ensures compliance with safety standards, electrical codes, and best practices in automation design.
• Manages confidentiality, system integrity, and intellectual property related to automation solutions.
• Mentors and guides Level I and II engineers and technicians in automation, controls, and troubleshooting.
• Supports field activities including commissioning, troubleshooting, and system optimization.
• Travel requirement of ~25%, including potential international travel.

• Ability to perform work with minimal supervision in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
• Expertise in PLC programming, troubleshooting, and system integration (Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, Beckhoff).
• Strong experience with SCADA/HMI systems (Factory Talk View, Ignition).
• Ability to read, interpret, and develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and P&IDs.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (Ether Net/IP, Modbus TCP, OPC UA, etc.).
• Handles complex technical issues independently and escalates only the most critical challenges.
• Possesses comprehensive knowledge of automation, controls systems, and manufacturing processes.
• Provides leadership, coaching, and mentoring to junior engineers and technical teams.
• Strong verbal, written, and presentation skills across technical and executive audiences.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a data‑driven approach.
• Ability to work effectively in cross‑functional and collaborative environments.
• Strong attention to detail,…