Automation Engineer

Job Summary  Are you ready to drive automation excellence and improve manufacturing performance through innovative control systems? IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, and health & biosciences. We deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products. This role is based in Tilburg (onsite) and offers an opportunity to be part of a proactive, solution‑oriented, and collaborative engineering team, where you can achieve operational excellence and make a real impact.
Where You’ll Make a Difference   Design, develop, and implement automated systems and machinery to optimize manufacturing processes and reduce manual intervention.
Program, test, and validate control systems (e.g., PLC, SCADA) to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and reliability.
Integrate equipment and systems to enable seamless plant operations and improved overall performance.
Monitor system performance, perform preventive maintenance, and troubleshoot issues to minimize downtime.
Act as the main point of contact for automation‑related topics and support cross‑functional teams.
Collaborate closely with Production, Quality, EHS, Warehouse, and IT teams to align automation initiatives with business objectives.
Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities in process control and automation technologies.
Develop and maintain documentation, including SOPs, system specifications, and maintenance records.

Minimum Qualifications   Minimum diploma degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or Industrial Automation Engineering.
At least 5 years of experience in PLC and SCADA programming.
Solid understanding of electrical systems, instrumentation, and process control (including interlock systems).

Experience with automation technologies such as PLC (e.g., Siemens, Emerson) and SCADA systems (e.g., iFIX, Cimplicity).
Knowledge of ATEX regulations and Process Hazard Analysis (PHA).
Fluent in Dutch and English, both written and spoken.
Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to work independently and prioritize tasks effectively.
Experience in regulated industries such as food or pharma (e.g., GMP, food safety standards).
Hands‑on mindset with strong communication and collaboration skills.
Desired Attributes   Experience working in complex manufacturing environments with multiple stakeholders.
A proactive approach to continuous improvement and innovation.
Ability to translate technical challenges into practical, efficient solutions.
Enthusiasm to learn, continuously develop skills, and persist in driving tasks through to completion.
Why Choose Us   Opportunity to work in a highly technical and impactful engineering role.
Collaborative and supportive team environment across multiple disciplines.
Exposure to advanced automation technologies and continuous improvement projects.
Structured onboarding and development opportunities.
A safe and quality‑driven working environment.
Career growth opportunities within engineering and regional roles.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement  We consider all qualified candidates equally and based on merit, without regard to religion, ethnicity, national origin, race, age, veteran status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation or disability. We strive for an inclusive workplace where each colleague can bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or disability.

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