Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer (AAK Richmond, CA)

$141,000 - $241,000 Annually

The Automation Engineer is responsible for developing functional specifications for capital projects, implementing PLC programs, integration, and commissioning at the manufacturing sites in the US. They set standards for equipment, software, and instrumentation, and train and support onsite operators and technicians.

• Design, develop, and operationally support the automation portfolio within the AAK site.
• Work cross‑functionally with operations, maintenance, and IT.
• Deploy automation solutions with key integrators (Emerson RX3i, Allen Bradley PLCs, Cimplicity, Ignition, Wonderware SCADA).
• Integrate and maintain world‑class solutions while managing integrator relationships and meeting business needs within budget.
• Lead safety efforts and support zero‑accident goals.
• Develop functional specifications for PLC logic for capital projects and process changes.
• Supervise installation and programming of temperature, level, pressure, and flow instruments.
• Collaborate with IT to secure control systems against external influence.
• Create and manage revision control for all control system programs.
• Design and implement control panels and upgrades.
• Install and troubleshoot motor controls, VFDs, and soft‑starts.
• Audit, update, and maintain documentation (panel P&IDs, ladder logic diagrams).
• Map all control systems and document current state and future strategies.
• Execute capital and maintenance projects, manage integrators, and provide emergency corrective maintenance.
• Assist IT with OT integration and audit preventive/predictive maintenance.
• Provide practical solutions to operations, controls, and IT problems.
• Scope, estimate, and execute automation capital and maintenance projects.
• Train employees and oversee contractor work to ensure quality.
• Identify opportunities to improve safety, speed, and cost‑effectiveness.
• Participate in safety and audit committees, employee task forces, etc.
• Specify new technologies and run trials.
• Plan and direct strategic improvements to keep plant process controls current.
• Develop and maintain site calibration systems per standards.

• Lead the safety effort by personal example.
• Support facility compliance with safety rules to achieve zero accidents.
• Ensure zero contractor accidents during major construction or maintenance.
• Identify high‑risk safety/productivity issues and help remedy them.
• Adhere to SOPs and work procedures to ensure safe, efficient operations.

• Control costs and minimize wastage.
• Support minimum part sparing aligned with US Operations goals.
• Work to reduce costs and improve efficiencies across departments.

• Engineering degree in Automation or Electrical Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 10 years in a similar role, automation project management, equipment specification, and cost control.
• At least 3 years with Emerson and AB PLCs, Cimplicity, Ignition, and Wonderware.
• Proficient in MS Office Suite and AutoCAD.

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) starting at hire.
• Health Savings Account with  1,000– 1,500 annual contribution.
• 401(k) match: 100% of first 3% you contribute, 50% of next 3%.
• Free life and disability insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Supplemental pet insurance, identity theft protection, and legal insurance plans.
• Travel, amusement park, concert, movie, and more discounts.
• On‑site celebrations, events, and community activities.
• Recognition incentives and peer‑to‑peer recognition.

Everything AAK does is about Making Better Happen™. AAK is a leading specialist producer of plant‑based oils, employing more than 4,000 people worldwide. The company specializes in creating high‑quality, healthy, and sustainable products across industries such as chocolate & confectionery, bakery, dairy, plant‑based foods, special nutrition, food service, and personal care.

AAK prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, religion, veteran status, and any other class of individuals protected from discrimination under state or federal law in any aspect of employment.

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Engineering and Information Technology

Food Production