Automation Engineer

About the role

We are recruiting a Process Automation Engineer at our facility in Harrisonburg, VA. In this strategically important role, the successful candidate will be focused on driving process improvement and sustainability through the delivery of a best-in-class automation environment.

• Troubleshoot, fix/repair and support existing automation equipment, electrical control panels and communication protocols (e.g., ethernet, device net, Profibus and Modbus).
• Identify opportunities and carry out feasibility studies for project automation within existing processes and projects.
• Design, develop and implement electrical automation systems and controls for industrial processes, machinery, and manufacturing equipment.
• Design SCADA/DCS system, finalize architecture, prepare I/O list, select communication protocol.
• Develop and maintain PLC programs; troubleshoot PLC-related issues.
• Design and create user-friendly HMI interfaces; manage Scada Servers, HMIs and SCADA database, familiarity with Wonderware-InTouch is an advantage.
• Select, install and calibrate sensors, transducers and instruments to gather data and provide feedback for control systems.
• Establish communication protocols between devices, controllers and systems (Ethernet, Modbus, OPC, RS232, RS-485, Profibus).
• Prepare calibration schedule for instruments such as thermocouple, pressure transducers, flow meters.
• Update documentation and drawings for all automation-related equipment.

• Degree or equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Electronics & Communication or Instrumentation and Control.
• 3+ years’ experience in process automation within an industrial or manufacturing environment; dairy or food manufacturing and/or spray drying experience is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in SCADA, PLC & HMI programming tools and software (e.g., Wonderware Archestra, Schneider, Siemens, Allen-Bradley, ABB).
• Experience with industrial communication protocols and networking (e.g., firewall, ethernet switches, LIU, FO cables).
• Familiarity with industrial sensors, actuators, and control devices including motor control using starters and VFD.
• Strong understanding of electrical and control system design principles.
• Excellent project management, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Effective communication skills with the ability to interact with clients, vendors, contractors, etc. to understand requirements and deliver the project.

The typical hiring range for this role is $70,100 to $122,000 annually and is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, location, etc. In addition to your pay, Kerry offers benefits such as a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and retirement contribution (all benefits and incentives are subject to eligibility requirements).

Kerry is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

Kerry will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditional upon the successful completion of a background investigation and drug screen. Additional information can be found at Know Your Rights Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (dol.gov).