Automation Engineer
Job Description
Automation Engineer responsible for designing, developing, and managing on-site automation and electrical control systems for Mestek Machinery's HVAC duct fabrication equipment, with PLC programming, design verification, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Responsibilities
- Ensure safe operation, design, and debugging of process and automation control systems.
- Identify and recommend suitable vendors.
- Develop master plans, automation strategy, and software configuration.
- Diagnose and resolve complex issues across systems.
- Collaborate with the Engineering Manager to establish and enforce design standards, change control, and documentation for electrical engineering activities.
- Develop and debug PLC code for multiple stations.
- Create device drivers.
- Develop and program human-machine interface devices.
- Design interface circuitry.
- Assess power and load requirements and constraints.
- Design logic systems for sequencing and timing control.
- Create diagrams for cable connections.
- Develop processes and controls for design verification.
- Develop quality testing procedures and tooling.
- Demonstrate ownership and accountability for projects.
- Identify performance issues on new or existing equipment, perform root cause analysis, and propose solutions.
- Participate in brainstorming and design reviews, offering constructive critique of designs.
- Collaborate effectively in multi-disciplinary teams including mechanical, electrical, software, and controls.
- Conduct or assist with equipment and material test studies.
- Perform other related duties as required.
Requirements
- BSEE or BSME with 3 to 5+ years of industrial automation experience.
- Familiarity with current technology and applicable electrical codes (UL, CSA, CE).
- Experience with major PLC platforms and control devices such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and B&R.
- Understanding of electromechanical relationships within an automation system.
- Willingness to contribute to engineering procedure improvements.
- Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Strong technical skills plus communication, analytical, and interpersonal abilities.
- Solid understanding of code compliance requirements and industry standards.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and in a collaborative team environment.
- Experience with machine shops is a plus (welding, milling, turning, sheet metal).
- Knowledge and experience with 3D CAD software; Autodesk Inventor preferred, SolidWorks or similar.
Technologies
- AB (Allen-Bradley) PLC
- Siemens PLC
- B&R PLC
- MMI devices
- Autodesk Inventor
- SolidWorks
- MS Office
Compensation
Salary: USD 80,000 - 110,000 per year.
Wage Range
Exempt wage range: USD 80,000 - 90,000, depending on experience and education.
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Vision insurance
Physical Demands
- Regularly stand; frequently walk, use hands to handle, reach with arms, and communicate verbally.
- Occasionally sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
- Occasional lifting or moving up to 50 pounds.
- Vision requirements include close, distance, peripheral, and ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment
Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts with a moderate noise level typical of the shop floor.
Core Hours
Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm onsite, with potential flexibility.