Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer

• Location: Southeastern Mississippi (Hybrid Position)
• Status: Full-time Permanent
• Department: Engineering
• Salary: $105-115K
• Direct Hire, Full Time

About the Role
Our client, a global leader in the food ingredients manufacturing industry, is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer for their Hattiesburg, MS production facility, and to support and advance automated systems across their North American manufacturing facilities. This role will focus on process control optimization, including the design, programming, and maintenance of PLCs, SCADA systems, and HMIs. The ideal candidate brings hands-on technical expertise, cross-functional collaboration skills, and a passion for driving operational efficiency in a production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and support automation systems across plant operations
• Lead cross-functional discussions to define automation goals and system requirements
• Program and configure PLCs, SCADA systems, and Operator Interface Panels (e.g., Red Lion G308)
• Develop and maintain technical documentation (diagrams, P&IDs, procedures)
• Design control architectures based on plant and process needs
• Oversee and troubleshoot field instrumentation and control networks
• Deliver technical training to plant personnel on automation systems
• Ensure system compliance with safety standards, industry regulations, and company policies
• Execute testing procedures and continuous improvement initiatives
• Implement cybersecurity measures and analyze system performance for optimization

What You Bring
Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in software, electrical, or mechanical engineering, or equivalent experience
• 5 years of experience in:
  • PLC programming (SFC, function blocks, ladder logic, structured text)
  • SCADA system configuration and HMI graphic design
• Experience with industrial protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP)
• Solid understanding of control systems: VFDs, sensors, flow meters, actuators
• Ability to manage multiple automation projects
• Proficiency with industrial communication networks (Ethernet, Modbus, Profibus)
• Familiarity with Rockwell, Siemens, or Schneider Electric software platforms

Preferred Qualifications:

• Electrical and mechanical background
• Experience in food processing, food ingredients or fermentation environments
• Knowledge of Schneider-Electric Modicon PLCs

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