Job Summary: The Automation Engineer will be responsible for supporting, maintaining and developing automation control systems used throughout the rolling process. This role requires strong knowledge and experience in electrical and automation control systems such as PLC's, HMI's, drives, and VME controllers. The Automation Engineer will also participate in projects that require development, design and documentation of new or improved systems. The Automation Engineer must be highly motivated with excellent communication skills and be willing to provide technical assistance within a team environment.
Responsibilities- Troubleshoot, design and improve automation control systems in aluminum manufacturing facility.
- Troubleshoot, maintain, and develop control system code relating to IEC 61131-3 (Ladder, Function Block, Structured Text, Instruction List, Sequential Function Charts)
- Setup, commission and debug hardware and field instrumentation relating to the control systems.
- Troubleshoot and support small to medium sized AC and DC drives.
- Create or maintain intuitive and user-friendly HMI screens to interface with automation control systems.
- Customize HMI applications to meet specific project requirements.
- Interface and collaborate with area engineers from same or different disciplines to help resolve any process issues.
- Setup, configure and maintain industrial communication networks (Profinet, Profibus, Modbus, OPC, Ethernet)
- Participate in team-oriented projects while providing expertise in automation, leading to successful on-time project completion.
- Participate in FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing) and SAT (Site Acceptance Testing) for new developments and projects.
- Electronically document thorough detail on control system troubleshooting using change logs.
- Perform routine backups of PLC and drive projects.
- Interface 3rd party products to PLC's and other control system hardware.
- Effectively communicate with other team members on technical issues needing resolved to maintain a fluent manufacturing process.
- Ensure any new automation control systems are designed to current industry and plant standards.
- Provide troubleshooting assistance and leadership to area electricians or other maintenance personnel.
- Demonstrate safe working practices.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation or a related field.
- Minimum of three (3) years of experience supporting Level 1 control systems in a manufacturing environment.
- Experience programming, troubleshooting, and supporting PLC-based control systems utilizing IEC 61131-3 programming standards.
- Understanding of industrial control systems, PLC hardware, and automation principles; exposure to Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and/or Modicon platforms preferred.
- Working knowledge of electrical components and circuits, including relays, transformers, circuit breakers, contactors, and motor starters.
- Experience working with industrial communication networks and protocols such as Profinet, Profibus, Modbus, TCP/UDP.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex control system issues.
- Demonstrated ability to learn new technologies and apply engineering principles in a manufacturing environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Five (5) or more years of experience supporting industrial automation and control systems in a manufacturing environment.
- Experience designing, programming, and troubleshooting PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems.
- Experience with machine safety systems, safety-rated controls, and Safety Integrity Level (SIL) standards.
- Experience with industrial networking and communications architecture.
- Experience leading or supporting automation improvement projects.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings.
Key Competencies
- Ability to read, interpret, and troubleshoot electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across operations, maintenance, engineering, and IT teams.
- Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and safe work practices.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and respond effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Willingness to provide occasional off-hours support through phone, VPN, and on-site troubleshooting as needed.
