Automation Specialist

We are seeking a skilled Controls and Automation Engineer to provide essential engineering support for electrical and control systems within our operations.

This role involves managing hardware and software process control systems, including associated instrumentation, to maintain and enhance operational efficiency.

The engineer will take on responsibilities such as project management, system evaluations, and the design of improvements or new installations.

Collaboration with Maintenance, Operations, and other key teams to address and resolve electrical equipment issues is also a critical part of this role.

• Lead and manage assigned projects from initial estimation and planning through to completion, ensuring all objectives are met.
• Assess and evaluate project requirements, including timelines, resources, costs, and technical needs.
• Maintain and optimize existing electrical control and automation systems to ensure maximum uptime.
• Develop and implement reliability and preventative maintenance procedures as necessary.
• Provide ongoing support to operations to maximize system reliability and efficiency.
• Manage and fulfill hardware and software work requests from users.
• Offer engineering support for existing control systems, ensuring they meet operational demands.
• Conduct thorough electrical/control analysis to explore potential improvements and feasibility of new solutions.
• Address and resolve complex electrical and control issues using sound engineering principles.
• Create and modify PLC programming as required, adhering to established guidelines and procedures.
• Develop and update process descriptions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and preventative maintenance protocols.
• Train maintenance and production team members on new equipment, processes, and documentation.
• Apply engineering expertise to bridge the gap between product design and final development.
• Create software design specifications that meet user requirements.
• Collaborate with internal teams to diagnose and resolve electrical or control-related issues.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety and food safety protocols in all processes.
• Prepare and deliver detailed analysis and reports as needed.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology (EET), or a related field from an accredited institution.
• 5+ years of experience in controls/electrical engineering within meat processing, food/beverage, packaging, or heavy industrial manufacturing environments.
• Extensive knowledge of electrical control systems and related technologies.
• Strong project management skills with a proven track record of successful project execution.
• Expertise in Allen Bradley and/or Siemens PLCs, with the ability to remotely troubleshoot and resolve system issues.
• Proficient in control relay logic and electrical schematics, with a focus on improvement and efficiency.
• Familiarity with all aspects of production/manufacturing automation.
• Ability to read and interpret schematics and technical documents.
• Solid understanding of power distribution, motors, and motor controls.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Willingness to work in various environmental conditions (cold, hot).
• Commitment to ongoing training and professional development.
• Flexibility to work extended hours, including weekends, as needed.
• Must have reliable transportation to the worksite.