Automation Control Engineer

AFB International; O’Fallon (MO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Career Development

Ongoing Capital Investment

High-Growth Environment

Job summary

A leading pet food company in O’Fallon is looking for an Automation Controls Engineer to design and implement automation solutions in manufacturing. Key responsibilities include programming PLCs, leading projects, and developing SCADA solutions. Candidates should have expertise in Allen Bradley PLCs and a degree in Electrical Engineering or related field. The company offers growth opportunities and is dedicated to innovation in pet nutrition.

Qualifications

• Expertise in Allen Bradley / Rockwell PLCs and related software.
• Strong grasp of ladder logic, control system design, and troubleshooting.
• SCADA/HMI experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Program and troubleshoot Allen Bradley / Rockwell PLCs.
• Lead commissioning of automation control systems.
• Develop SCADA/HMI solutions.

Skills

Allen Bradley / Rockwell PLCs

Ladder logic and troubleshooting

SCADA/HMI experience

Electrical systems

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Studio 5000

RSLogix 5000

AVEVA / Wonderware / InBatch

Ignition

Job description

AFB International, a recognized leader in the pet food industry, has been enhancing the lives of pets and their owners for over 30 years. Our specialized palatants improve the flavor and nutritional value of pet foods, treats, and supplements, ensuring pets receive the essential nutrients they need. As part of Ensign-Bickford Industries, Inc. (EBI), a privately-owned high-technology conglomerate, AFB International operates across multiple global locations, including the United States (global headquarters), Europe, Latin America, Mexico, Australia, and China.

As an Automation Controls Engineer, you’ll be responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting cutting-edge automation and control solutions in a manufacturing environment. You’ll be at the forefront of AFB’s digital and automation transformation—applying your expertise to enhance reliability, efficiency, and process performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Program, modify, and troubleshoot Allen Bradley / Rockwell PLCs (Studio 5000, RSLogix 5000, 500, 5)
• Lead commissioning of automation control systems and projects
• Develop SCADA/HMI solutions
• Apply advanced ladder logic and phase logic for batch process control
• Configure, install, and maintain automation software & hardware
• Support OT infrastructure following Purdue Model and industrial networking best practices
• Manage capital projects—scoping, budgeting, scheduling, and execution
• Ensure cGMP compliance and process documentation
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive process improvement

Requirements:

• Expertise in Allen Bradley / Rockwell PLCs and related software
• Strong grasp of ladder logic, control system design, and troubleshooting
• SCADA/HMI experience (preferably AVEVA / Wonderware / InBatch and/or Ignition)
• Deep understanding of industrial controls, electrical systems, and instrumentation
• Experience commissioning network-based OT systems
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or related field preferred

Preferred:

• Background in food, flavoring, or pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Experience in liquid/dry blending and spray drying processes
• Familiarity with cGMP environments and automated batch processing

Why Join AFB International?

• High-Growth Global Company in a resilient, non-cyclical industry
• Ongoing Capital Investment – including new blend lines and future R&D initiatives
• Privately Held, Professionally Managed organization with long-term stability
• Set the Vision – Shape the site’s controls & automation roadmap
• Implement New Tools & Capabilities to advance site performance and AFB operations
• Career Development – We believe in investing in our people

Make a Difference with Us. Be a part of a company that combines high-tech innovation with a passion for pet nutrition. If you're ready to shape the future of automation in a global organization that values long-term vision and team development—we want to hear from you.