Automation Engineer

Skills/Qualifications: Advanced knowledge of automation systems, PLCs, HMIs, drives, robotics, sensors, safety circuits, and industrial networks. Ability to troubleshoot complex automation and controls issues in high-speed manufacturing. Knowledge of automation standards, electrical schematics, controls documentation, backups, version control, and change management. Ability to support root cause analysis, downtime reduction, equipment optimization, and continuous improvement activities. Working knowledge of Rockwell, Siemens, WinCC, TIA Portal, HMIs, drives, Fanuc/KUKA robotics, and material alignment systems preferred. Strong project support skills for installation, commissioning, validation, documentation, training, and turnover. Ability to communicate effectively with operations, maintenance, engineering, leadership, suppliers, and global stakeholders. Knowledge of OSHA, electrical safety, lockout/tagout, machine guarding, confined space, and safe troubleshooting practices. Demonstrates sound judgment, urgency, organization, integrity, teamwork, and effectiveness in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Requirements: Bachelor's degree from an accredited institute of higher learning in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or other relevant technical field, plus 3 years of practical experience in automation, controls, engineering, or industrial maintenance within a manufacturing environment. Equivalent technical experience may be considered. Demonstrated experience with equipment controls, PLC programming, HMI systems, drives, robotic systems, and automated manufacturing equipment. Knowledge of production processes, quality control concepts, preventive maintenance, equipment reliability, and continuous improvement methods. Prior experience in a highly automated manufacturing environment required; tire or rubber manufacturing experience preferred. Must be available to work overtime, weekends, shutdowns, and respond to urgent equipment or automation issues when needed. Must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position will not offer visa sponsorship.

Physical Requirements and Demands: The physical demands and work environment described below represent those required to perform the essential functions of this position. These requirements are job-related and consistent with business necessity. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable law. When present in designated production areas, employees are required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), which may include safety-toe shoes, safety glasses with side shields, hearing protection, and other PPE as defined by risk assessments or site policy. Ability to move throughout office and manufacturing environments, including walking, standing, and occasionally ascending and descending stairs or work platforms. Ability to occasionally traverse varied walking surfaces, including concrete floors, grated platforms, and industrial stairways. Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer or attending meetings. Ability to use hands and fingers for computer keyboarding, writing, handling documents, and operating standard office equipment. Ability to occasionally lift and/or move items such as files, laptops, or materials up to 20 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation. Ability to inspect equipment, processes, and work areas to identify hazards, non-conformances, or deviations, and to recognize safety signals, alarms, and changing conditions in the work environment, with or without reasonable accommodation. Ability to effectively receive, understand, and communicate work instructions, technical information, and safety-related information through appropriate means, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Work Environment: This position is primarily office-based within a manufacturing facility and requires routine presence in production areas. While in production areas, employees may be exposed to noise, moving machinery, industrial vehicles (e.g., forklifts), and other typical manufacturing hazards. Temperatures in production areas may vary seasonally and may range from approximately 65–100°F.Raw materials used in the manufacturing process may include oils, rubber compounds, carbon black, and other industrial materials. Employees may encounter industrial odors or airborne particulates typical of a manufacturing environment.