PLC Automation Engineer; Traveler

Position Summary

Supports the larger project team with designing, developing, and implementing automation control systems for various industrial processes and critical infrastructure. Demonstrates knowledge of common engineering principles, programming languages, and control system technologies. Maximizes equipment reliability and operational performance of equipment such as conveyors, sortation systems, scanners, cameras, print and apply systems, and SCADA devices and programs. Follows all necessary policies and procedures, especially related to safety.

This is a full-time, site-based position that requires extensive travel to locations that span the Central Region. Travel subsistence and additional incentives provided per company guidelines.

• Site technical expert in automation control systems.
• Train and mentor less experienced team members to ensure compliance with all company and client safety and technical training requirements.
• Design and develop control systems and software programs, implement and optimize automation processes, maintain and troubleshoot control systems and machinery.
• Enforce and follow a strict documentation process for all automation processes and programs.
• Work closely with client teams such as building Operations, and various Engineering, Continuous improvement and other support teams to drive system optimization and project implementation.
• Understand, maintain and troubleshoot control systems, including PLC/PC controllers and industrial networks such as Ethernet, Control Net, Device Net, Profibus, ASi bus, motor control systems, servo drives, frequency drives, and electrical distribution systems.
• Act as the first level of escalation support to both Project Engineers and other less experienced Automation Engineers, during and after business hours.
• Appropriately escalates downtime situations to vendors and senior leadership for support to restore equipment operation.
• Continually enforces safety to the highest standards by enforcing all company policy and procedures.

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent OR 4+ years of equivalent professional experience.
• Work a flexible schedule/shift/work area, including weekends, nights, and/or holidays.
• 2+ years of experience with PLC-controlled automation and issue diagnosis in a continuous process or production environment.
• 2+ years of experience with Ladder Logic and structured programming from Allen-Brady, or similar.
• Experience acting in a team lead capacity that supports, trains, and mentors less experienced automation engineering professionals.
• Advanced proficiency in verbal and written English.
• 2+ years of experience identifying, maintaining, troubleshooting, programming, and designing HMI and control network components.
• 2+ years of experience with electrical theory, robotics, controls components, automated equipment.
• 2+ years of experience interpreting, modifying, and developing mechanical and electrical drawings.
• Ability to interpret and understand policies and procedures and relate them to others.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• 2+ years of experience of industrial electrical hands‑on experience and troubleshooting, including 480V 3‑phase, 110 VAC, and 24
  
  VDC systems.
• 2+ years of experience in controls design or programming experience.
• 2+ years of system integration experience.
• Problem‑solving mindset for debugging systems.
• Ability to read and understand mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plans is required.
• Adaptability and continuous learning to keep up with industry trends.
• Experience driving continuous improvement or programmatic solutions in relation to automated equipment.
• Ability to meet attendance schedule with dependability and consistency.
• Experience working with multiple stakeholders (Operations, Safety, etc.) to coordinate complex maintenance activities.
• Excellent computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint).
• Must have a proven commitment to safety.
• Must be able to safely and legally operate a vehicle.
• Ability to travel as necessary, including overnight stays.