Automation & Controls Engineer — Lead Plant Automation

schwans; Sioux Falls (SD); On-site; USD 75,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

CJ Schwan’s is seeking an Automation and Controls Engineer for our new Sioux Falls facility. You will lead electrical, automation, and control initiatives across production lines, ensuring safe, reliable and efficient operations in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.

The role includes project leadership from concept to startup, development of PLC/HMI/SCADA standards, and collaboration with maintenance, operations, engineering, and quality teams.

Qualifications

• ABET-accredited engineering degree required (B.E./B.S. or higher).
• Minimum 5 years in automation, controls, or electrical engineering in manufacturing.
• Experience leading automation projects from concept to startup; food/bev/CPG preferred.

Responsibilities

• Serve as plant SME for automation, controls, and electrical systems across operations.
• Lead automation projects to improve efficiency, reliability, and quality.
• Develop strategies for controls, networks, and plant floor automation.
• Maintain standards for PLC, HMI, SCADA and control architectures.
• Provide advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis.

Skills

Automation

Electrical Engineering

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Engineering

ABET-accredited program

Tools

SCADA

PLC programming

HMI design

Job description

CJ Schwan’s is seeking an Automation and Controls Engineer for our new Sioux Falls facility. You will lead electrical, automation, and control initiatives across production lines, ensuring safe, reliable and efficient operations in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.

The role includes project leadership from concept to startup, development of PLC/HMI/SCADA standards, and collaboration with maintenance, operations, engineering, and quality teams.