Automation & Controls Engineer - Food Manufacturing

Zina's Salads; SOUTH PLAINFIELD (NJ); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

401(k) matching

Employee discounts

Free food & snacks

Paid time off

Job summary

Zina's Fine Foods, a growing refrigerated food manufacturer, seeks an Automation & Controls Engineer to own PLC design, programming, and line optimization for on-site production in South Plainfield, NJ. You will lead commissioning, select equipment, and drive safety and quality standards across lines.

The role emphasizes strong PLC expertise (Allen Bradley/Siemens), process control, and hands-on leadership in a regulated food environment. Bachelor's in engineering preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Controls or related field
• 5+ years designing, programming, and troubleshooting industrial control systems
• Experience with Allen Bradley and Siemens PLC platforms
• Experience leading equipment commissioning projects from specification through production release
• Proficiency with VFDs, servo systems, HMIs, and industrial networks
• Ability to read, interpret, and produce electrical schematics and mechanical drawings
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with engineering judgment
• Valid driver's license
• Strongly prefer experience in food manufacturing and sanitary environments
• Spanish language proficiency

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and modify PLC programs for production equipment on Allen Bradley and Siemens platforms
• Determine control architecture and integration approach for new lines
• Evaluate automation technologies and develop technical specs for equipment purchases
• Define machine parameter standards and operating windows for throughput and quality
• Investigate recurring faults and establish corrective solutions
• Analyze line performance data to remove bottlenecks and improve efficiency
• Plan and direct installation and commissioning of new/used equipment
• Assess used-market equipment and reverse engineer PLC programs
• Serve as technical authority for OEM/vendor engagements and escalations
• Approve equipment release to production after safety verification
• Provide technical direction to maintenance and production supervisors
• Develop training curriculum and SOPs for operators and technicians
• Establish PLC version control standards and documentation practices
• Advise leadership on automation strategy and CAPEX prioritization
• Ensure compliance with GMP, HACCP, SQF, electrical safety, and lockout/tagout

Skills

Industrial control systems

Troubleshooting

Independent work

Engineering judgment

Driver's license

Vendor engagement

Training & documentation

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Controls

Tools

Allen Bradley PLC

Siemens PLC

VFDs

Servo systems

HMIs

Industrial networks

Job description

Zina's Fine Foods, a growing refrigerated food manufacturer, seeks an Automation & Controls Engineer to own PLC design, programming, and line optimization for on-site production in South Plainfield, NJ. You will lead commissioning, select equipment, and drive safety and quality standards across lines.

The role emphasizes strong PLC expertise (Allen Bradley/Siemens), process control, and hands-on leadership in a regulated food environment. Bachelor's in engineering preferred.