Automation Controls Engineer

Ensign-Bickford Industries; O’Fallon (MO); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

AFB International, part of Ensign-Bickford Industries, is seeking an Automation Controls Engineer to design, implement, and support advanced automation in a manufacturing environment. You will drive reliability, efficiency, and process performance across global operations.

You will program PLCs, lead commissioning, develop SCADA/HMI solutions, and ensure cGMP compliance while collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver capital projects.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Program, modify, and troubleshoot Allen Bradley / Rockwell PLCs (Studio 5000, RSLogix 5000).
• Lead commissioning of automation control systems and projects.
• Develop SCADA/HMI solutions.
• Apply ladder logic and phase logic for batch process control.
• Configure, install, and maintain automation software & hardware.
• Support OT infrastructure following Purdue Model and 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.

Skills

Allen Bradley / Rockwell PLCs

Ladder logic

SCADA/HMI

Industrial controls

Electrical systems

Instrumentation

Network-based OT systems

Problem-solving

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering / Automation or related field

Tools

AVEVA

Wonderware

InBatch

Ignition

Job description

This opportunity is located within our AFB International business, the global science and technology leader in pet food palatability. We develop and produce a full range of liquid and dry palatability enhancers using high-quality ingredients proven to optimize companion animal response and consumption.

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

Qualifications

Required:

• 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.

AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.