Automation Specialist

Location: Angier

Job Title:

Automation Specialist

Job Description

The Automation Specialist supports the design, development, testing, and documentation of continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS), with a focus on PLC-based control systems and their integration at customer sites. The role includes technical design and configuration, quality testing of Allen-Bradley PLC control systems, and on-site commissioning and training. This position involves up to 25% travel to industrial locations to support system integration, commissioning, and customer training while contributing to reliable, high-quality monitoring solutions.

Responsibilities

+ Design, configure, and support PLC-based control systems for continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS).

+ Maintain and improve existing PLC ladder logic programs for Allen-Bradley Compact Logix and Control Logix monitoring systems using Studio 5000 Logix Designer.

+ Maintain and enhance Allen-Bradley Human-Machine Interface (HMI) applications to provide intuitive and reliable end user interfaces with PLCs.

+ Configure and support communications gateway devices to enable command and control between field devices and PLCs.

+ Participate in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) of completed products and systems prior to shipment to customer sites, ensuring quality and functionality.

+ Assist with on-site installation, startup, and commissioning activities at industrial locations, including integration of monitoring systems, instruments, and controls.

+ Contribute to continuous improvements in the design and operation of monitoring systems, instruments, controls, metering, and electrical equipment installed at customer facilities.

+ Provide communications and control system support and troubleshooting for internal teams and external customers, both remotely and on site.

+ Perform all work in accordance with logic diagrams, electrical and mechanical drawings, sketches, and other written instructions to ensure accurate implementation.

+ Collaborate closely with cross-functional team members to achieve project timelines, quality standards, and overall team goals.

+ Communicate technical concepts clearly and professionally with vendors, internal staff, and end users using both written and verbal communication.

Essential Skills

+ Minimum of two (2) years of experience in PLC programming using Allen-Bradley Studio 5000 Logix Designer software for Control Logix and Compact Logix processors.

+ Proven experience with Allen-Bradley Compact Logix and Control Logix PLC platforms, including ladder logic development and troubleshooting.

+ In-depth knowledge of hardware-based HMI development, including configuration, deployment, and maintenance of HMI interfaces.

+ Strong understanding of digital and analog process signal measurement and control as they relate to programmable logic controllers.

+ Experience working with industrial communications protocols such as MODBUS and related communication standards.

+ Working knowledge of wiring techniques for analog and digital PLC communication modules and associated field devices.

+ Ability to interpret and work from logic diagrams, electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and technical documentation.

+ Strong written and verbal communication skills to explain technical concepts to vendors, internal stakeholders, and end users.

+ Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment to achieve shared project and company objectives.

+ Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.

+ Undergraduate university degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

+ Hands-on experience specifically with the person systems and Studio 5000, as required for this role.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Experience in automation environments involving PLCs, HMIs, and industrial control systems.

+ Familiarity with continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS) or similar process monitoring systems.

+ Exposure to configuring and supporting communication gateway devices in industrial automation settings.

+ Experience participating in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and site acceptance or commissioning activities.

+ Experience in electrical or instrumentation disciplines supporting control system integration.

+ Ability to troubleshoot complex control and communication issues in the field under time-sensitive conditions.

+ Comfort working across multiple projects and priorities while maintaining attention to detail and quality.

+ Strong problem-solving mindset with a focus on continuous improvement of system design and performance.

Work Environment

The Automation Specialist works primarily in a technical, engineering-focused environment that combines office-based design and configuration tasks with on-site industrial field work. Office work involves using tools such as Allen-Bradley Studio 5000 Logix Designer, HMI development software, communication gateway configuration utilities, and Microsoft Office applications. Field…