Automation & Controls Engineer

Automation and Controls Engineer

Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. As an Automation and Controls Engineer, you’ll be at the heart of revolutionizing our facility’s electrical control systems.

• Program and troubleshoot PLC, HMI, and Variable Frequency Drives to optimize production systems and improve efficiency.
• Diagnose and repair electrical systems to keep operations running at peak performance.
• Mentor less experienced floor electricians and lead automation projects from start to finish.
• Continuously seek production process improvements that minimize downtime and simplify troubleshooting.
• Design and standardize software and hardware architectures for automation projects, collaborating with multiple functions.
• Lead technology selection and present a clear technology roadmap for immediate and long‑term growth.
• Ensure safety, food safety, and USDA compliance in all activities.

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four‑year college or university and 2+ years of controls engineering experience or equivalent combination.
• Industrial manufacturing experience required.
• Proficient in troubleshooting and programming Rockwell PLCs (Rs Logix
  500, Rs Logix
  5000, Studio
  500), HMI (Factory Talk StudioME/SE), Powerflex drives, Kenetix Servo drives, Device Net, Control Net, and Connected Components Workbench.
• Experience troubleshooting hardwired systems and reading US and European style prints.
• Comfortable working with voltages ranging from 24V DC to 4160V AC.
• Ability to multi‑task several projects and troubleshooting duties simultaneously.
• Strong work ethic, self‑motivated, and able to work well in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.

• Fluency in Mandarin (strongly preferred).
• Food or pharmaceutical manufacturing experience.
• Experience with Siemens PLC (TIA Portal), HMI (TIA Portal), and Drives.
• Networking experience.
• Previous experience with the Ignition platform.

Regularly required to stand, walk, use hands and arms in varying positions, kneel, crouch or crawl to troubleshoot or repair production equipment. Must sit for long periods to write programs and perform administrative tasks such as work orders and emails. Able to lift or move up to 50 pounds occasionally. Must work in extremely hot and cold environments, often moving between extremes in the same shift.

Relocation package available.

Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veteran status, status as a disabled individual, or any other protected group status or non‑job characteristic as directed by law. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757‑357‑1595.