Automation Research & Development Engineer

Overview

Kaiser Aluminum is known around the world for its superior quality. Our secret is what we put into it—innovative thinking, industry-leading reliability, and a world-class commitment to customer service. In short, the same qualities we look for in our people. We are looking for a Automation & Development Engineer to join Kaiser Aluminum onsite in Spokane Washington!

We are seeking an engineer or scientist who solves real-world manufacturing problems by writing code, with a deep interest and knowledge about manufacturing process optimization and data analytics. The ideal candidate will have expertise in using modern technologies and data-driven methodologies to enhance manufacturing processes.

Benefits

• Salary range $85,000 to $125,000 commensurate with experience.
• High deductible medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, including spouse and children (modest payroll deductions).
• 10 paid holidays per year.
• Vacation (3 weeks starting out).
• Supplemental leave (used in conjunction with Washington Paid Family & Medical Leave).
• 401K with matching company funds.
• Quarterly bonus structure.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• A collaborative, team-oriented culture that values initiative and continuous improvement.
• Opportunities to work on a wide range of projects, from low-level equipment/process control to high-level, plant-wide digital integration systems.
• Hands-on work with Industry 4.0 tools such as IoT sensors, data analytics, machine learning, digital twins, and smart factory systems.
• Dedicated time and resources to explore, test, and implement new solutions and technologies.
• Training in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, advanced manufacturing software/hardware, metrology, and more.
• Mentorship, cross-functional team experiences, and exposure to leadership – technical or Management - for those looking to advance.

• Proficient in process control, data analytics, and optimization using modern tools.
• Experienced in design of equipment and processes to solve manufacturing challenges.
• Has strong knowledge of advanced technologies, such as machine learning and simulation tools

• Leverage data analytics, process control, and cutting-edge technologies to improve and optimize manufacturing processes.
• Develop and deploy software and systems supporting Industry 4.0 initiatives, including:
  • Data warehousing for advanced analytics.
  • Vertical & horizontal integration of manufacturing information and control systems.
  • Simulation and Digital Twins to model and optimize processes.
  • Advanced measurement systems for capturing and analyzing critical process variables.
  • Implement advanced technologies, such as:
    • Computer Vision
    • Machine Learning
    • Internet of Things (IoT)
• Support new process and product R&D by developing control systems, data collection, visualization, and analysis tools.
• Build and deploy software solutions to improve process visualization and control, with metrics such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), Statistical Process Control (SPC), and Quality Compliance.
• Drive continuous process and production improvements through control system enhancements.
• Develop a strong technical understanding of aluminum casting, rolling, heat treatment, and related operations.
• Provide expert technical support to teams in Metallurgy, Quality Control, Engineering, Maintenance, and Production.
• Create and maintain web applications for internal use, improving process transparency and access to critical data.

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry with strong aptitude in Math and Software Development.
• Experience converting mathematical models of physical systems into software algorithms (Numerical Methods).
• Familiarity with at least one programming or scripting language (C#, Java, Python, etc.).
• Familiarity with manufacturing software and systems such as PLCs, SCADA, Historians and Reporting (e.g., Control Logix, Pi, Wonderware, Ignition, Power BI, Alteryx, etc.).
• Familiarity with database concepts.
• Excellent problem solving, investigative, experimental, and statistical analysis skills.
• Ability to apply continuous improvement tools and methodologies to processes and projects.
• Proven ability to…