Automation Engineer

Engineered Controls International, LLC; Elon (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary bonus

Job summary

OPW is seeking an Automation Engineer to design, program, and deploy PLC-controlled automation for assembly and testing cells. You will work with cross-functional teams to bring automated systems from concept through commissioning, ensuring safety, quality, and efficiency in a production environment.

The role requires hands-on PLC and robot integration, HMI development, and strong problem-solving skills to improve uptime and OEE. A proactive approach to continuous improvement is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level degree in electrical engineering, mechatronics, controls engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years programming and troubleshooting PLCs in industrial settings.
• Hands-on experience programming industrial robots and integrating into automated systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and debug PLC programs for assembly automation equipment.
• Program and integrate industrial robots for pick-and-place, path planning, and material handling.
• Develop HMI screens and operator interfaces for machine control and diagnostics.
• Design and implement vision system integration for part inspection and quality verification.
• Configure and troubleshoot servo motion systems, VFDs, and motor drives.

Skills

PLC programming

Robotics integration

HMI development

Vision systems

Servo/motion control

Troubleshooting under time pressure

Reading schematics

Data analysis / OEE

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Mechatronics/Controls related degree

Related field

Tools

Allen-Bradley

Siemens

FANUC

Universal Robots

Keyence vision systems

EtherNet/IP / Profinet

Autodesk Inventor

SolidWorks

Job description

Since 1892, OPW customers have been able to count on us to revolutionize fluid‑handling operations around the world. As a global leader in fluid‑handling solutions, the mission of OPW is to be a developer of a comprehensive array of innovative fluid‑handling solutions that our customers can consistently and reliably count on. These include loading and unloading systems for high‑value hazardous and non‑hazardous bulk products; railcar and transport tank‑truck valves, gauging devices and tank‑monitoring systems; automated storage‑terminal controls and systems; and regulators, fittings, valves, vaporizers, vacuum‑jacketed piping and gas‑handling systems for the safe handling and distribution of cryogenics and industrial gases. OPW has more than 2,000 employees with manufacturing operations in North America, Europe and China, and sales offices around the world. OPW is part of the Clean Energy & Fueling segment of Dover (NYSE: DOV).

The Automation Engineer will be responsible for the design, programming, integration, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of automated assembly and testing equipment, including PLC‑controlled machinery, robotic work cells, and associated controls hardware. This role will work cross‑functionally with manufacturing engineering, maintenance, quality, and production teams to bring automated systems from concept through commissioning (both in‑house and vendor) and provide ongoing production support. We are looking for individuals who have knowledge or experience in assembly/testing and automation processes, a keen eye for safety and quality, the ability to solve problems and troubleshoot, and the desire to develop and expand their skills in a production‑driven environment. The Automation Engineer will report to the PES Value Stream Manager.

What You'll Do

Controls Design and Programming

• Design, develop, and debug PLC programs (Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, or similar) for assembly automation equipment
• Program and integrate industrial robots (FANUC, Universal Robots, etc.) for pick‑and‑place, path planning, material handling, loading/unloading, dispensing, welding, or assembly applications
• Develop HMI screens and operator interfaces for machine control and diagnostics
• Design and implement vision system integration (Keyence or similar) for part inspection, guidance, and quality verification
• Configure and troubleshoot servo motion control systems, VFDs, and motor drives
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical design engineers during the concept and design phases to ensure controls feasibility

Equipment Specification & Vendor Management

• Develop detailed technical specifications (URS/equipment specs) for new automation equipment, including PLC, robotics, and vision system requirements
• Research and evaluate automation equipment vendors, integrators, and component suppliers based on technical fit, cost, lead time, and reliability
• Solicit and review vendor quotes and proposals; lead technical evaluation and vendor selection process
• Manage vendor‑built automation projects from kickoff through FAT/SAT and installation, including schedule tracking, budget oversight, and change order management
• Review vendor‑supplied design packages, electrical schematics, and controls documentation for compliance with internal standards and specifications
• Act as primary technical point of contact and lead design reviews, progress meetings, and FAT/SAT activities with external vendors and integrators
• Ensure vendor equipment meets safety, quality, and performance requirements prior to acceptance and handoff to production

Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement

• Provide technical support for installed equipment, including root cause analysis and corrective action for downtime events
• Identify and implement improvements to improve machine uptime, cycle time, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)
• Support preventive maintenance programs and develop troubleshooting documentation for maintenance and production staff
• Analyze production data and machine performance to identify optimization opportunities
• Integrate mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and controls subsystems into functioning automated work cells

Documentation & Compliance

• Create and maintain electrical schematics, I/O lists, controls architecture diagrams, and program documentation that complies with all applicable safety standards
• Participate in risk assessments and safety validation for automated equipment
• Maintain version control and backups of PLC, HMI, and robot programs

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Mechatronics, Controls Engineering, or a related field
• 3+ years of experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs in an industrial/manufacturing environment
• Hands‑on experience programming industrial robots and integrating them into automated systems
• Working knowledge of electrical schematics, ladder logic, structured text, and function block programming
• Understanding of pneumatics, sensors (photo eyes, proximity, encoders), servo/motion control, and machine safety circuits
• Experience with HMI development platforms
• Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose mechanical, electrical, and software issues under time pressure
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and P&IDs
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite

The Ideal Candidate Will Also Bring

• Experience with FANUC and Universal Robots programming/certification
• Familiarity with machine vision systems (Keyence or similar)
• Experience with industrial networking protocols (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, DeviceNet, Modbus TCP)
• Experience with Autodesk Inventor, SolidWorks, or similar 3D CAD software for reviewing mechanical designs
• Prior experience in high‑volume assembly and testing automation, packaging automation, or similar
• Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or continuous improvement training

This position is eligible to earn a discretionary bonus based on performance metrics and other criteria outlined in our applicable bonus plan.

We consider several job‑related, non‑discriminatory factors when determining the pay rate for a position, including, but not limited to, the position’s responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, a candidate’s education/training, the position’s location, and the key skills needed for the position. Pay is one of the Total Rewards that we provide to compensate and recognize employees for their work.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, genetic information, or any other factors prohibited by law.