Automation & Controls Engineer: Manufacturing Systems Lead

Steel Dynamics; Columbus (MS); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Steel Dynamics in Columbus, MS is seeking an Automation / Controls Engineer I to support reliability and continuous improvement of manufacturing automation systems. The role partners with operations, maintenance, quality, and IT to troubleshoot issues, implement improvements, analyze production data, and maintain Level 2 automation applications, dashboards, and reporting tools.

Candidates will develop expertise in industrial networks, process automation, and steel production operations while

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Computer/Mechanical/Automation Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• Basic knowledge of programming, databases, industrial automation, or manufacturing systems.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work in a team-oriented manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Follow safety policies and participate in safety initiatives.
• Troubleshoot Level 2 automation, software, and system issues with operations and maintenance.
• Monitor process and equipment performance to identify improvement opportunities.
• Develop, test, implement, and document enhancements to Level 2 apps and data tools.
• Create and use SQL queries and reporting tools to validate data.
• Assist with root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Maintain backups and follow change management procedures.
• Support HMI, dashboards, and reporting system development.
• Assist with industrial networks configuration (Ethernet, TCP/IP, Profinet).
• Participate in outages, upgrades, and capital projects.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation and standard work.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive improvements.
• Analyze data to identify trends and process improvements.
• Pursue continuous professional development.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Troubleshooting

Team player

Programming basics

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

Tools

SQL

Python

C#

PLC/SCADA exposure

HMIs / industrial networks

Job description

Steel Dynamics in Columbus, MS is seeking an Automation / Controls Engineer I to support reliability and continuous improvement of manufacturing automation systems. The role partners with operations, maintenance, quality, and IT to troubleshoot issues, implement improvements, analyze production data, and maintain Level 2 automation applications, dashboards, and reporting tools.

Candidates will develop expertise in industrial networks, process automation, and steel production operations while