Corporate Automation Engineer

The Corporate Automation Engineer is responsible for the design, programming, troubleshooting, and support of industrial automation and control systems used in manufacturing operations. This position works closely with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, and Information Technology teams to improve equipment reliability, reduce downtime, support capital projects, and implement automation improvements.

The role provides technical expertise for PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, industrial networks, drives, and manufacturing control systems while supporting daily operations, equipment upgrades, digital transformation initiatives, and automation standardization across company facilities.

Essential Responsibilities

Automation & Controls Engineering

• Design, program, test, commission, and maintain industrial automation systems including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, motion control systems, and related control hardware.
• Provide hands-on support for manufacturing equipment to diagnose and resolve electrical, automation, and controls-related issues.
• Develop and modify PLC and HMI programs to support equipment improvements, process changes, and operational requirements.
• Troubleshoot and support industrial communication networks and automation hardware.
• Perform system testing, startup, and commissioning activities for equipment modifications and new installations.
• Maintain accurate documentation including PLC programs, HMI applications, electrical drawings, backups, and system changes.

Project Support & Continuous Improvement

• Support automation activities associated with capital projects, equipment upgrades, and process improvements.
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, OEM suppliers, and contractors to implement automation solutions.
• Participate in equipment troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and corrective action activities.
• Identify opportunities to improve safety, productivity, quality, and equipment reliability through automation improvements.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on manufacturing performance.

Manufacturing Support & Equipment Reliability

• Provide technical assistance during equipment startups, planned outages, and production issues.
• Support preventative maintenance activities related to automation and control systems.
• Assist with troubleshooting electrical control systems, sensors, instrumentation, motor controls, and industrial equipment.
• Follow established change management, documentation, and safety procedures

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Engineering Technology, Computer Engineering, or related technical discipline preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education, technical training, and industrial automation experience may be considered.

Experience

• Minimum of five (5) years of industrial automation and controls experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience troubleshooting and supporting automated manufacturing equipment.
• Experience working with electrical systems, PLCs, HMIs, and industrial control equipment.

Technical Skills

• PLC programming and troubleshooting:
  • Rockwell Automation RSLogix 5000 / Studio 5000 preferred
  • Siemens TIA Portal a plus
• HMI development and troubleshooting:
  • FactoryTalk View ME/SE or similar platforms
• Variable frequency drives and motor control systems.
• Industrial electrical schematics and control circuits.
• Industrial communication networks including Ethernet/IP, ControlNet, DeviceNet, Profibus, or similar protocols.
• Basic understanding of SQL databases, manufacturing systems, and data collection methods preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

Industry Experience & Advanced Technical Skills

• Experience in steel, metals, aerospace, heavy industrial, or continuous manufacturing environments.
• Experience with SCADA systems such as FactoryTalk, Ignition, Wonderware, or Siemens WinCC.
• Experience with:
  • Motion control systems
  • Process instrumentation controls
  • Industrial networking
  • Machine safety systems
  • Manufacturing data collection systems
• Experience working with OEM equipment suppliers and system integrators.
• Familiarity with OT cybersecurity concepts and industrial network best practices.

Work Environment & Requirements

• Ability to provide occasional off-hours support for critical production issues.
• Ability to travel between company locations as needed, with occasional overnight travel.
• Ability to work safely in an industrial manufacturing environment including exposure to noise, heat, dust, and production equipment.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required.

Safety Responsibilities

• Demonstrate a safety-first mindset in all work activities.
• Follow company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and established procedures.
• Identify and communicate potential safety hazards and improvement opportunities.
• Design and implement solutions that prioritize employee safety and equipment protection.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to analyze complex technical issues and develop practical solutions.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively with operators, maintenance teams, engineers, and vendors.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality.
• Positive, collaborative approach to problem solving and continuous improvement.

Core Competencies

• Automation & Controls Engineering
• PLC/HMI Programming
• Electrical Troubleshooting
• Equipment Reliability
• Manufacturing Systems Integration
• Root Cause Analysis
• Project Support & Execution
• Continuous Improvement
• Communication
• Cross-Functional Collaboration

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. Responsibilities may change based on business needs.

Universal Stainless is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.