Automation Electrical Engineer
The job description
Tech stack. PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens), HMI development, VFD configuration, industrial Ethernet (EtherNet/IP, Profinet), control panel design, AutoCAD Electrical, UL 508A, machine safety
About the role
You will design and commission control systems at a systems integrator building automated production lines for the packaging industry. Your panels and programs run the machines: PLCs executing sequences with millisecond determinism, VFDs driving motors smoothly, HMIs guiding operators clearly, and safety systems protecting people absolutely. You will design the electrical controls, program them, test them in the shop, and stand beside the line at the customer site at startup until it runs at rate and the customer signs acceptance. You will integrate PLCs, drives, safety systems, and HMIs into cohesive control architectures that run production reliably around the clock. Your commissioning work will bring lines from first power-on to full-rate production with minimal drama.
What you will achieve
- Deliver complete control panel designs per UL 508A, from schematics through fabrication and shop testing, that pass inspection without rework or field modifications.
- Program PLC logic and HMI screens that run production sequences reliably for years, with fault handling and diagnostics that help operators recover quickly instead of calling support.
- Commission automated lines on customer sites, achieving rated throughput and OEE targets during formal acceptance testing with the customer witnessing.
- Reduce commissioning time project over project by standardizing code libraries, panel layouts, network architectures, and checkout procedures across the team.
- Troubleshoot production issues remotely and on-site with structured methods, restoring lines to operation with minimal downtime and documenting fixes for the knowledge base.
What you will bring
Must-haves
- 2 to 5 years designing or commissioning PLC-based control systems in industrial environments.
- Proficiency with at least one major PLC platform (Allen-Bradley or Siemens) including structured programming practices and version control.
- Ability to design control panels: component selection, wire and breaker sizing, short-circuit current ratings, and thermal management.
- Knowledge of VFDs, servo drives, sensors, safety devices, and industrial networking configuration.
- Understanding of machine safety: risk assessment methodology, safety PLCs or safety relays, guarding interlocks, and safe stop categories.
- BS in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience with robotics integration or machine vision systems on automated lines.
- Familiarity with SCADA or MES connectivity and data collection from the line.
- Willingness to travel for commissioning, typically 25 to 40 percent.
- Knowledge of NFPA 79 and its application to industrial machinery.
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