Automation Engineer

Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated; Ankeny (IA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan with matching

Medical, Dental & Vision Care

Paid parental leave

Paid Time Off

Daily Pay

Job summary

Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated (JLL) is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to design, develop, and implement control systems for industrial processes and warehouse equipment.

You will lead and mentor junior engineers, troubleshoot PLC/PC controllers, and collaborate with operations and engineering teams to optimize material handling systems and improve performance.

Qualifications

• 4-year degree or knowledge equivalent to a 4-year degree.
• Proven ability to lead, train, and mentor less experienced automation engineers.
• Proficiency in CMMS use, troubleshooting, and coordinating maintenance with multiple stakeholders.
• Advanced verbal and written English skills with ability to interpret and communicate policies.
• Strong problem-solving mindset and commitment to continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize automation control systems and software for conveyors, sortation, scanners, cameras, and SCADA devices.
• Serve as site technical expert in automation control systems and mentor apprentices.
• Maintain and troubleshoot PLC/PC controllers and industrial networks; document changes per procedures.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, and support teams to optimize MHE systems and deliver projects.

Skills

4-year degree

Mentor others

CMMS

English proficiency

Problem solving

Flexible shifts

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Tools

RSLogix5000 Studio

FT View

Job description

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way. Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

Automation Engineer – JLL

What this job involves

We are seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to design, develop, and implement automation control systems for industrial processes and warehouse distribution equipment. The role requires strong knowledge of engineering principles, programming, and control system technologies, with a focus on improving the reliability and performance of conveyors, sortation systems, scanners, cameras, print-and-apply systems, and SCADA devices. All work must follow established policies and procedures, with safety as a top priority.

What your day-to-day will look like

Serve as site technical expert in automation control systems and mentor Apprentices to meet safety and technical standards. Design, develop, implement, and optimize control systems and software; maintain and troubleshoot equipment including PLC/PC controllers and industrial networks. Adhere to strict documentation and Automation Change Management procedures. Partner with operations, engineering, and support teams to optimize MHE systems and deliver projects. Monitor MHE metrics, analyze performance issues, and lead troubleshooting efforts locally and remotely. Conduct root cause analysis, implement process improvements, and drive continuous improvement projects for performance and cost savings. Communicate technical issues, timelines, and operational workarounds to leadership and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• 4-year degree or knowledge equivalent to a 4-year degree
• Proven ability to lead, train, and mentor less experienced automation engineers.
• Proficiency in CMMS use, troubleshooting, and working with multiple stakeholders to coordinate complex maintenance activities.
• Advanced verbal and written English skills with ability to interpret and communicate policies.
• Strong problem‑solving mind, adaptability, and commitment to continuous improvement.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years of PLC programming, troubleshooting, and HMI/control network design, along with SCADA systems and KPIs.
• Hands-on experience with motor controls (VFDs, DC drives, starters) and industrial electrical systems (480V 3‑phase, 120 VAC, 24VDC).
• Proficiency in RSLogix5000 Studio, FT View, and other controls software, with experience in controls design and systems integration.
• Ability to interpret, modify, and develop mechanical and electrical drawings.
• Field service engineering and technical training experience, including conveyors, sortation, ASRS, and industrial robotics.
• Proven record in remote technical support and driving automation system improvements.

At JLL, we work together to create a brighter future for our clients, colleagues, and communities. Our collaborative culture—locally and globally—drives innovative solutions. We value wellbeing, inclusivity, and belonging, ensuring every team member feels supported. JLL is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. Location: On-site – Ankeny, IA

Personalized benefits that support personal well‑being and growth

JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits may include:

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay

At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.

JLL Privacy Notice
Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading global provider of real estate and investment management services. We take our responsibility to protect the personal information provided to us seriously. Generally the personal information we collect from you are for the purposes of processing in connection with JLL’s recruitment process. We endeavour to keep your personal information secure with appropriate level of security and keep for as long as we need it for legitimate business or legal reasons. We will then delete it safely and securely. For more information about how JLL processes your personal data, please view our Candidate Privacy Statement. For additional details please see our career site pages for each country.
For candidates in the United States, please see a full copy of our Equal Employment Opportunity policy here. Jones Lang LaSalle (“JLL”) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

About JLL

For over 200 years, JLL (NYSE: JLL), a leading global real estate and investment management company, has helped clients buy, build, occupy, manage and invest in a variety of commercial, industrial, hotel, residential and retail properties. A Fortune 500® company with operations in over 80 countries around the world, our employees bring the power of a global platform combined with local expertise. Driven by our purpose to shape the future of real estate for a better world, we help our clients, people and communities SEE A BRIGHTER WAYSM. JLL is the brand name, and a registered trademark, of Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. For further information, visit jll.com.