Sr. Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Schwan’s Company, a U.S. affiliate of the global lifestyle brand CJ Cheil Jedang Corporation, is a leader in manufacturing and marketing quality foods enjoyed nationwide.

We have beloved brands like Red Baron®, Tony’s®, Big Daddy’s®, Villa Prima™ and Freschetta® pizzas; bibigo®, Pagoda® Asian-style snacks and we can’t forget Mrs. Smith’s® and Edwards® pies! We bring families and communities together through great food. Join our team and see the opportunities are real, and the sky is the limit; this isn’t just a job, it’s a seat at the table!

• Lead Electrical Controls Projects: Provide engineering leadership for corporate and plant capital projects, ensuring successful design and execution of electrical control systems.
• Strategic Development: Create and implement long-term strategies for controls, network architecture, and plant floor systems to boost efficiency and innovation.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with project teams and business functions (IT, EHS, Supply Chain, etc.) to apply advanced technologies and drive business improvements.
• Mentorship and Team Development: Guide and develop plant engineers and automation teams, focusing on technical skills, leadership, and change management.
• Capital Planning & Execution: Lead the development of long‑range capital plans, manage obsolescence, and ensure project alignment with budget and performance expectations.
• Technology Advancement: Stay current with industry trends, recommend and implement new technologies to enhance equipment performance, quality, and safety.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor of Science or Master of Science degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology required (Electrical preferred, Chemical, Mechanical). ABET‑accredited program is strong preference.
• Experience:
  
  7+ years in manufacturing; 5+ years engineering experience focusing on electrical and control systems. Previous experience with manufacturing food and beverage or consumer packaged goods companies required; experience in plant operations and industrial environments required. Previous experience in budgeting in a multi‑site manufacturing capacity; experience in project engineering including scope definition, cost estimation and tracking.
• Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  Demonstrates project management leadership, problem‑solving, decision‑making, troubleshooting, communications, and interpersonal skills; ability to work with a team and influence diverse groups at various levels and across functions. Strong knowledge and understanding of primary codes and safety requirements applicable to controls safety systems, robotics, and power distribution equipment and systems. Knowledge of Lean Six‑Sigma concepts and ability to use a CAD system is preferred.
  
  Strong ability to utilize application, programming, and integration experience through a variety of hardware/software platforms. Ability to troubleshoot PLC#s at the code level and troubleshoot equipment and wiring. Understanding of low and medium voltage power distribution and associated equipment preferred. Must have strong knowledge of processing, packaging & facility systems along with thorough understanding of food manufacturing, engineering, quality, sanitary design and research functions.
  
  Demonstrates compliance with USDA, FDA, OSHA, EPA, City and/or State agencies for both manufacturing processes and building requirements.
• Travel:
  Ability to travel up to 50% as required (dependent on location).
• Additional:
  Must have strong knowledge of processing, packaging & facility systems along with thorough understanding of food manufacturing, engineering, quality, sanitary design, and research functions.

The base salary range for this position is $90,750 to $151,250 annually with eligibility for a 10% annual incentive bonus that is based on organizational performance. The pay range represents the numerous factors considered in the hiring decisions including, but not limited to education, skills, work experience, certifications, geography etc. As such, starting pay for the successful candidate(s) could fall anywhere within the stated range.

Beyond base salary, we offer a competitive Total…