Platform Engineer

**Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.; Sponsorship is not available for this position now or in the future.

At Milwaukee Tool we firmly believe that our People and our Culture are the secrets to our success -- we give you the tools and innovative environment you need to create disruptive new technologies and solutions.

Reporting the Director of Advanced Engineering & Technology (AET) this role will have a clear connection to and 100% focus on Operations initiatives. The Data Engineer will enable the digital transformation of production facilities through initiatives such as full part traceability, KPI dashboarding and predictive analytics. You will interface and collaborate with OT controls engineers and IT teams to enable the data capture of key manufacturing processes and equipment. Leveraging that data for key business initiatives.

Our collaborative and supportive work environment encourages out-of-the-box thinking, challenges traditional approaches, and empowers us to explore groundbreaking ideas. We are committed to staying ahead of the curve, continuously investing in research and development, and ensuring that our engineers have access to the most advanced technology.

Core Responsibilities:

• Develop and Optimize Data Pipelines: Build new data pipelines or leverage existing ones (e.g., Kepware, AVEVA) to enable high-level KPIs, industrial analytics, and system-wide capabilities.
• Hands-On Equipment Interaction: Engage directly and interactively with equipment to determine and support multi-site operational needs.
• Citizen Developer for Core Platforms: Act as a citizen developer for key platforms (e.g., Tulip, Microsoft PowerPlatform), contributing to platform enhancement and process improvement.
• Operational Expertise Across Multiple Sites: Gain a deep understanding of manufacturing processes across various sites to ensure operational efficiency.
• Cross-Functional Data Needs Gathering: Collaborate with Manufacturing and Quality teams to gather and address their data needs effectively.
• Identify and Implement Data Collection Opportunities: Recognize areas for data collection improvement and implement solutions to capture and deliver actionable insights.
• Effective Communication via Dashboards: Develop and use reporting dashboards to communicate effectively, ensuring strong functionality and clarity.
• Collaborate with IT and External Vendors: Partner with IT and external vendors to enhance data technologies and cloud computing tools.
• Integrate Sensors and Technologies: Work closely with Controls and Production Engineers to identify and incorporate additional sensors and technologies into production systems.

Desired Qualities:

• Proficiency in Data Technologies: Familiarity with a broad range of technologies related to data tracking, storage, movement, and transformation.
• Understanding of Communication Protocols: Solid understanding of communication protocols used to connect PLCs (e.g., OPC UA, EtherCAT, Modbus) and extract data.
• Self-Directed Learning and R&D Mindset: Eagerness to pursue self-directed learning, explore emerging technologies, and apply an R&D mindset to innovative solutions.
• Process Analysis and Data Capture Implementation: Ability to analyze processes, identify critical data sources, and implement sensors/solutions to capture and analyze data, particularly in manufacturing and process development environments.
• Strong Cross-Functional Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective cross-functional collaboration.
• Project Status Reporting: Ability to effectively communicate project status and progress to stakeholders.
• Knowledge of Sensor Technologies: Working knowledge of various sensor technologies and their integration with machine controls.
• Experience with Industrial Connectivity Platforms: Hands-on experience with industrial connectivity platforms (e.g., Kepware, OSI PI).
• PLC Programming and Electrical Skills: Experience with PLC programming (especially Ladder Logic), wiring, and electrical skills, with the ability to connect data to networks being a plus.

Requirements:

• Bachelor of Science Degree or master‘s degree in mechatronics engineering, controls engineering, automation engineering technology, or equivalent combination of training, education, and experience.
• 2+ years of experience in related field.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a hands-on attitude.
• 25% Travel Expected

Our Perks and Benefits:

• Robust health, dental and vision insurance plans.
• Generous 401 (K) savings plan.
• Education assistance.
• And many more, check out our benefits siteHERE.