About the roleSouthco is looking for an Automation Engineer to design, implement, and continuously improve the automated systems that power our manufacturing operations. This role applies engineering principles and hands-on technical expertise to keep our automated assembly equipment running reliably, to troubleshoot and resolve complex controls issues, and to lead improvement projects from concept through implementation. You'll work closely with production, engineering, and outside automation vendors to specify, evaluate, and integrate new equipment, and you'll be a go-to resource for PLC programming, machine vision, robotics, and electrical controls across the plant floor.
What you will be doing •
Keep it running: diagnose and fix issues across PLC-controlled conveyors, servo/stepper drives, pneumatics, robotics, and end-of-arm tooling.
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Program the brains: write and troubleshoot ladder logic, function blocks, or structured text on industrial controllers.
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See what the line sees: configure and maintain machine vision systems for inspection and quality control.
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Wire it up: read schematics and panel layouts, and maintain safety-rated controls and I/O.
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Bring in the robots: integrate and program industrial robots to spec and to safety standard.
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Own the vendor relationship: write specs, run design reviews, and lead acceptance testing for new equipment.
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Deliver: run your projects on schedule and on budget, and pitch in wherever the team needs it.
About you Required Skills:
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Automation Engineering - or equivalent hands-on experience.
• 5+ years in a manufacturing environment focused on industrial automation.
• Hands-on experience with automated assembly equipment: conveyors, servo/stepper drives, pneumatics, robotics, and end-of-arm tooling.
• Working knowledge of PLC programming (ladder logic, function blocks, or structured text) and machine vision systems.
• Comfort reading electrical schematics and working with safety-rated controls.
• Experience integrating industrial robots and familiarity with robotics safety standards (RIA/ANSI).
• A track record of managing vendors and delivering projects independently, on time and on budget.
• Sharp communication skills and a knack for working across engineering, production, and outside partners.
Preferred Skills:
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PLC/HMI platforms: Studio 5000, RSLogix 5000/500, Omron Sysmac Studio/CX-Programmer, FactoryTalk View, or Ignition.
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Vision systems: Keyence (IV/IV2/IV4/IX, XG/CV/VS) or Cognex (In-Sight, VisionPro).
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Networking: EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, Modbus, or Profibus.
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Robot brands: FANUC, Denso, Yaskawa, Epson, Universal Robots, or ABB.
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Extras: SCADA/MES exposure, Lean or Six Sigma background, Rockwell Automation certification, or an advanced
How will we reward you - Generous time off - starting at 3 weeks of annualized PTO (first year is prorated based on start date), 9 company holidays plus 2 floating holidays.
- 401(k) Savings and Investment Plan - Company makes matching contributions of 50% up to the first 6% of eligible pay you contribute and up to 2% contribution of eligible pay based on company performance.
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) valued at approximately 4-6% of eligible earnings which includes dividend payments after 3-year vesting period.
- Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) beginning first day of employment; company funds a portion of HSA for high-deductible health plans.
- Company paid Life & Disability Insurance including: Short term, Long Term, and Life.
- Tuition Reimbursement program to support undergraduate or graduate programs.
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