Job Description SummaryGE Vernova's Schenectady Cores & Castings (SCC) facility is a critical node in the Gas Power supply chain - producing precision components that power turbines deployed around the world. We are looking for a Lead Automation & Controls Engineer to serve as the technical authority for factory automation, robotics, and industrial controls across this dynamic manufacturing environment.
In this role, you will own the full lifecycle of automation systems - from concept and design through programming, commissioning, and continuous improvement. You will be the go-to expert for PLCs, SCADA, HMIs, robotics integration, and IT/OT convergence, while also serving as the primary interface with OEMs, cross-functional teams, and operations leadership. This is a highly visible, hands-on engineering leadership role with direct impact on safety, quality, throughput, and the digital evolution of the SCC facility.
Relocation assistance is available for candidates relocating to the Schenectady, NY area.
Job DescriptionKey ResponsibilitiesAutomation Design & Deployment- Design, develop, prototype, and deploy innovative factory automation and robotic systems that improve safety, quality, and production throughput
- Integrate hardware, software, and sensors (LiDAR, vision systems, IMUs, barcode scanning) into automation platforms aligned with the facility roadmap
- Program industrial robots for motion control, path planning, and autonomous navigation; integrate all forms of industrial automation devices into PLC logic
- Conduct system simulations and performance testing to validate automation solutions under real-world manufacturing conditions
Controls Engineering & Technical Leadership- Serve as the site's technical expert for industrial controls systems - covering machine tools, robotics, FMS, SCADA, HMIs, and IT/OT infrastructure
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation and robotic system issues across hardware, software, and controls layers
- Act as the lead point of contact with controls equipment OEMs and parts vendors
- Analyze IT/machinery control failures to identify root causes, recommend corrective actions, and drive resolution with maintenance and external suppliers
Systems Integration & IT/OT Operations- Perform routine systems maintenance including server patching, equipment integration into FMS, HMI creation, system tag management, Historian access administration, and firewall rule maintenance
- Integrate automation and AI-driven capabilities into manufacturing systems as opportunities arise
- Document and maintain technical specifications, process maps, electro-mechanical drawings, test plans, and maintenance procedures
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Continuous Improvement- Partner with EHS, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, Process Engineering, Materials, Industrialization, and Operations to define project requirements and ensure seamless system integration
- Lead and contribute to Kaizen, Lean, Built-in-Quality, Management of Change, and Safety Risk Assessment initiatives; ensure LOTO compliance on all designed equipment
- Maintain consistent presence on the production floor - conducting Gemba walks at shift start and daily check-ins with operators, maintenance technicians, and operations leaders
- Manage multiple concurrent projects to schedule and budget; provide timely status communication to key stakeholders
Required qualifications- Bachelor's Degree from an accredited university or college in: Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or a related field
- A minimum of 8 years of proven, hands-on work experience in a technical or engineering support in an electrical or control role may substitute for the degree requirement.
- Must have a minimum of 6 years of industrial experience in designing & deploying factory automation and robotics
- Proficient in control networks including : Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet, OPC-UA, Modbus, ProfiNet, Profibus
- Expertise with PLC and sensor/actuator integration, HMIs, SCADA, FMS - Alllen-Bradley experience required
Desired qualifications- Proficient in programming languages such as C++, Python.
- Functional knowledge of robotics setup, application, manipulation and maintenance.
- Experience using CAD software like NX and SolidWorks.
- Experience with machine learning and AI applications in robotics.
- OEM relevant certifications in robotics and automation (e.g., FANUC, ABB, Rockwell)
- Strong interpersonal and leadership skills with a proven ability to work effectively in team environments.
- Ability to coordinate and manage several projects simultaneously.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and committed to continuous improvement.
- Experience integrating vision systems, sensors (LiDAR, IMU, barcode) and I/O devices into PLC/automation architectures.
- Functional knowledge Electrical panel layouts.
- Ability to understand, interpret, and create written technical information (i.e. Engineering drawings, electro-mechanical schematics, ladder logic, machine manuals, and standard operating procedures).
- Effective problem solving and analytical skills with a focus on applied automation and robotic programming, control, and hardware issues.
This role requires access to U.S. export-controlled information. If applicable, final offers will be contingent on ability to obtain authorization for access to U.S. export-controlled information from the U.S. Government.
Additional InformationRelocation Assistance Provided: Yes
For candidates applying to a U.S. based position, the pay range for this position is between $98,400.00 and $164,000.00. The Company pays a geographic differential of 110%, 120% or 130% of salary in certain areas. The specific pay offered may be influenced by a variety of factors, including the candidate's experience, education, and skill set.
Bonus eligibility: discretionary annual bonus.
This posting is expected to remain open for at least seven days after it was posted on August 19, 2026.
Available benefits include medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage; access to Health Coach from GE Vernova, a 24/7 nurse-based resource; and access to the Employee Assistance Program, providing 24/7 confidential assessment, counseling and referral services. Retirement benefits include the GE Vernova Retirement Savings Plan, a tax-advantaged 401(k) savings opportunity with company matching contributions and company retirement contributions, as well as access to Fidelity resources and financial planning consultants. Other benefits include tuition assistance, adoption assistance, paid parental leave, disability benefits, life insurance, 12 paid holidays, and permissive time off.
