2027 Electrical & Automation (E&A) Engineer Development Program

Socket.dev; Waverly (IA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Nestlé USA is seeking ambitious individuals for the Electrical & Automation Engineer Development Program, a two-year, hands-on rotation designed to develop the next generation of E&A engineers who will power our factories and digital ambitions.

The program includes approximately 24 months at a designated Electrical & Automation COE factory, a structured curriculum, mentorship, and opportunities to transition into a full-time E&A engineer position at U.S. factories or distribution centers.

Job description

Foods you love. Brands you trust. And a career that empowers you to grow.

At Nestlé USA, we’re all working towards the same goal – to delight and deliver for our consumers. With a rich portfolio of beloved brands, including DiGiorno, Toll House, and Coffee mate, in 97% of U.S. households, we have a unique opportunity – and responsibility – to be there for every moment in our consumers’ lives.

Joining Nestlé means becoming part of an inclusive workplace that inspires innovation, encourages strategic thinking and creativity, and celebrates your achievements. No matter where you work within the organization, you are empowered to challenge the status quo, embrace risk‑taking, and pioneer new ideas. Our supportive and collaborative environment encourages bold ambitions and continuous learning so that everyone can grow and thrive.

This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

Are you ready to kickstart your career with a leading global company?
We are looking for ambitious individuals seeking real‑world Electrical & Automation experience in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

At Nestlé USA, we’re modernizing how food gets made—safely, sustainably, and at scale. Our E&A Engineer Development Program is a two‑year, hands‑on programdesigned to develop the next generation of E&A Engineers who will power the factory of the future and support our bold digital ambition.

Program Overview

Program Design:

• Approximately 24 months at a designated Electrical & Automation Center of Excellence (COE) factory (one primary location for the duration of the program)

• Structured curriculum, mentorship, and development experiences—including regular connection with corporate E&A SMEs

• Upon successful completion, participants transition into a full‑time Electrical & Automation Engineer position at one of our U.S. factories or distribution centers

What You’ll Do (Core Responsibilities)

Make an impact from day one by:

Technical & Hands‑On Learning

• Building foundational E&A skills through hands‑work, structured training, and guided practice with experienced E&A leaders

• Supporting process improvements by gathering data, documenting findings, and assisting senior engineers with quality, safety, and efficiency initiatives

• Assisting daily operations & maintenance of electrical power, instrumentation, and control systems—including early exposure to digital tools that improve reliability

Compliance, Documentation & Sustainability

• Helping maintain accurate electrical and automation documentation and supporting change control processes

• Supporting energy and water saving initiatives and assisting in tracking results

• Learning asset management fundamentals, including equipment condition, lifecycle, and capital planning support

Capital Projects & Digital Exposure

• Contributing to capital investment projects—from scoping and vendor support to commissioning, testing, and documentation

• Gaining real‑world exposure to industrial automation & controls (PLCs/SCADA, instrumentation, industrial networking)

• Learning how data drives predictive/automated decision making

Additional Program Experience

You will support the design, implementation, and maintenance of electrical, automation, MES, and digital systems. Activities may include:

• Troubleshooting control systems and supporting project execution

• Assisting with technical documentation, specifications, procurement, programming support, assembly, and commissioning

• Providing technical support and training to operators and technicians

• Collaborating with cross‑functional teams to support organizational goals

Program Timeline

Phase 1—First ~4 months: Foundational Manufacturing & Nestlé Understanding

You’ll build a strong technical and business foundation through:

• Immersive learning and cross‑functional rotations

• Shadowing and hands‑on exposure to Engineering & Maintenance, Supply Chain, Finance, Human Resources, Industrial Performance, SH&E, Quality, and Production

• Leading meaningful projects that deliver real value

Phase 2—Last ~20 months: Deeper E&A Technical Skill‑Building

You’ll transition into more advanced Electrical & Automation skill‑building and leadership development, including:

• Mentorship and networking with senior leaders

• Scenario‑based leadership training and Nestlé leadership practices