Automation R&D Engineer

Reading Bakery Systems is hiring an Automation R&D Engineer in Robesonia, PA (onsite) to help develop intelligent industrial equipment. This is a hands-on engineering role combining automation and controls work with applied AI and modern connected-machine capabilities, including predictive maintenance and IIoT-ready data collection.

You will work across prototyping, testing, and customer startups, turning real field issues into improved diagnostics and machine designs. The role also contributes to future RBS standards for Industrial IoT (IIoT), machine connectivity, and data collection using established protocols and edge capabilities.

What you’ll do

• Develop and test new automation and smart-machine technologies for production equipment
• Create smarter diagnostics, condition monitoring, operator guidance, and predictive-maintenance solutions
• Explore practical applications of AI, machine learning, machine vision, and data analytics
• Work hands-on with PLCs, HMIs, drives, sensors, instrumentation, and industrial equipment
• Support prototypes through testing, commissioning, troubleshooting, and customer startups
• Improve recurring field problems by enhancing controls, diagnostics, and machine design
• Help define future RBS standards for IIoT and intelligent equipment, including connectivity and data collection using OPC UA, MQTT, and edge devices

What you bring

• BS in Electrical Engineering, Controls, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related field
• Strong industrial controls and machine-troubleshooting experience
• PLC experience with Rockwell / Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens
• Experience commissioning or improving industrial machinery
• Curious, hands-on engineering mindset, comfortable moving from concept to prototype to production

Technologies you’ll work with

• AI, machine learning, machine vision, and data analytics
• PLCs, HMIs, drives, sensors, and instrumentation
• Industrial IoT (IIoT), OPC UA, MQTT, and edge devices
• Python, edge computing, robotics, and motion control

Bonus experience

• Python
• Machine vision
• AI/ML
• Predictive maintenance and condition monitoring
• Industrial IoT (IIoT)
• OPC UA and MQTT
• Edge computing
• Robotics and motion control
• OEM equipment experience