Automation Engineer

Johnson Controls; Gilbert (AZ); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Johnson Controls is seeking an Automation Engineer to support Gilbert, AZ manufacturing operations. You will execute daily automation activities, upgrade equipment, and ensure reliable data collection and system integration to improve throughput and quality.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Engineering and 3+ years in automation/controls, with experience in PLCs, robotics, HMIs, and data analytics. Strong problem-solving and collaboration are essential in this fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering required.
• At least three years of experience in automation, controls, or manufacturing engineering.
• Experience with PLCs, robotics, HMIs, control networks, vision systems, sensors, and relevant software.
• Lean principles, DMAIC, and data-driven decision making.

Responsibilities

• Execute daily automation and controls activities to support production operations.
• Lead equipment upgrades and data collection solutions based on site roadmap priorities.
• Integrate machinery into plantwide systems and networks.
• Design connected systems, data acquisition tools, and real-time monitoring solutions.
• Support digital twins, AI-enabled manufacturing optimization, and predictive maintenance initiatives.
• Document standard work and maintain system records.
• Collaborate with Operations and Engineering to align actions with roadmap.

Skills

Automation engineering

Industrial controls

Lean & DMAIC

Data-driven decisions

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

PLC

Robotics

HMIs

Control networks

Vision systems

Industrial sensors

Job description

About Us

Silent-Aire, a division of Johnson Controls, is a global leader in owner equipment manufacturing (OEM) dedicated to providing custom solutions for data center customers. Our product line includes large-scale equipment such as air handling units and modular data centers. We pride ourselves on innovation, quality, and delivering tailored solutions to meet our clients' unique needs.

Location: Gilbert, AZ, USA

Silent-Aire, a division of Johnson Controls, is a global leader in owner equipment manufacturing (OEM) dedicated to providing custom solutions for data center customers. Our product line includes large-scale equipment such as air handling units and modular data centers. We pride ourselves on innovation, quality, and delivering tailored solutions to meet our clients' unique needs.

Position Overview

Support the execution of automation and controls initiatives at Gilbert, AZ to advance Industry 4.0 objectives. Oversee day-to-day automation and manufacturing system operations, ensuring equipment uptime, efficient data collection, and successful deployment of automation upgrades. Work closely with the Automation & Controls Project Lead, Automation and Controls Specialist, Operational Excellence teams, Plant Engineering, and cross-functional partners to implement improvements on schedule and within budget. Provide on-the-floor technical support, troubleshooting, and hands-on execution of automation solutions.

How You Will Do It

• Execute daily automation and controls activities to support production operations
• Implement equipment upgrades, system modifications, and data collection solutions based on site roadmap priorities
• Lead integration of machinery into plantwide systems and networks
• Design of connected systems, data acquisition tools, and real-time monitoring solutions
• Spec out and deployment of autonomous robotics systems for material handling, welding, brazing, assembly, painting, and wrapping operations
• Support creation and maintenance of digital twins and simulations for layout optimization, equipment planning, and productivity analysis
• Drive the execution of data collection initiatives, ensuring accurate and reliable operational data
• Perform basic data analysis to identify trends and improvement opportunities
• Contribute to the development and sharing of real-time dashboards (Power BI or similar) for KPIs, production status, and equipment performance
• Assist with testing and implementing additive manufacturing technologies where applicable
• Implement augmented reality solutions to improve assembly and quality processes
• Support pilot deployments of AI enabled manufacturing optimization, digital work instructions, and predictive maintenance
• Support structured problem solving using DMAIC or similar Lean methodologies
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts, kaizen events, and cross-functional technical projects
• Document standard work, update system documentation, and maintain accurate control system records
• Work closely with Operations and Engineering teams to align daily actions with the technology deployment roadmap
• Collaborate with maintenance, production, and quality teams to ensure cohesive execution of automation activities
• Actively contribute to an inclusive and safety focused culture
• Other duties as assigned.

Required

What we look for:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering
• At least three years of experience in automation, controls, industrial systems, or manufacturing engineering
• Experience with PLCs, robotics, HMIs, control networks, vision systems, industrial sensors, and relevant software
• Strong troubleshooting skills and a mindset capable of driving tasks to completion
• Familiarity with Lean principles, structured problem-solving (e.g., DMAIC), and data driven decision making
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, machine documentation, and technical drawings
• Good communication and interpersonal skills; able to collaborate across all levels of the facility
• Comfortable working independently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

Preferred

• Experience with digital manufacturing systems, Industry 4.0 technologies, or smart factory initiatives
• Exposure to simulation tools, digital twins, or advanced analytics platforms
• Experience with Power BI or similar data visualization tools
• Background working with autonomous robotics, automated manufacturing, or AR/VR technologies