Automation Engineer (Manufacturing)

Come be part of our new project - supporting our sister company Tru Fru manufacturing within our Salt Lake City Facility. 

The Maintenance Automation Engineer is responsible for the upkeep, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated systems and machinery in a production or industrial environment. This role focuses on maintaining operational efficiency and reliability while ensuring compliance with safety standards. The engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams to support continuous improvement and resolve automation-related issues.

Key Responsibilities

• System Maintenance and Troubleshooting
• Perform routine inspections and maintenance of automation systems, including PLCs, SCADA, HMI, robotics, and sensors.
• Diagnose and resolve malfunctions in automated systems to minimize downtime.
• Update, back up, and restore control system programs and configurations.
• Preventive and Predictive Maintenance
• Develop and implement maintenance schedules for automation equipment.
• Use predictive maintenance tools (e.g., vibration analysis, thermal imaging) to identify potential issues.
• Optimization and Upgrades
• Analyze automation processes to identify areas for efficiency and reliability improvements.
• Implement system upgrades, including hardware and software changes, to enhance performance.
• Recommend and integrate new technologies to optimize production.
• Safety and Compliance
• Ensure all automation systems adhere to safety regulations and standards (e.g., OSHA, IEC, NFPA).
• Enforce Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures and other safety protocols during maintenance activities.
• Documentation and Reporting
• Maintain detailed documentation of maintenance activities, program changes, and system configurations.
• Prepare reports on system performance, downtime, and recommendations for improvement.
• Collaboration and Training
• Work closely with production teams, mechanical and electrical engineers, and external vendors to resolve complex automation issues.
• Train maintenance personnel on the operation and troubleshooting of automated systems.

Key Skills and Competencies

• Proficiency in programming and troubleshooting PLCs (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider).
• Strong understanding of HMI, SCADA, and industrial networking protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profinet).
• Knowledge of robotic systems, vision systems, and industrial drives (e.g., VFDs, servos).
• Familiarity with control panel design, wiring, and electrical schematics.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: 3+ years in automation maintenance or engineering within an industrial setting.
• Certifications (preferred): Siemens TIA Certification, Rockwell Automation Certification, or equivalent.
• Physical Requirements Ability to work in industrial environments with exposure to heat, noise, and confined spaces. Capability to lift up to [weight, e.g., 50 lbs] and perform physical tasks, such as climbing ladders or working in awkward positions.