Automation Engineer

FetchJobs.co; United States; On-site; USD 97,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary range: $96,800 - $120,000

Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, &

Paid Time Off including parental leave

401(k) with company match

Tuition Reimbursement

Annual performance-based bonus

Benefits from Day 1

Job summary

Keurig Dr Pepper in Ottumwa, IA is seeking a Principal Automation Control Engineer to lead PLC/SCADA standardization across our manufacturing network and drive major automation initiatives. You will mentor junior staff, work with IT for cybersecurity, and coordinate with vendors to implement advanced control systems.

The role emphasizes independent work, strategic project leadership, and building documentation, training, and best practices to improve uptime and data-driven decision making across

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
• At least five years of industrial automation experience in manufacturing with extensive PLC programming.
• Preference for familiarity with Allen-Bradley Rockwell FactoryTalk, Logix, and industrial network protocols.
• Knowledge of GE iFix and Ignition SCADA/HMI is essential.
• Experience with process/packaging automation, variable/servo drives, and GE-Fanuc robotic control is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead standardization of PLC/SCADA systems across the manufacturing network.
• Provide technical support to operations and project teams, resolving complex automation issues.
• Support continuous improvement of data collection, reporting, and automation processes.
• Collaborate with internal teams and third-party vendors to troubleshoot and optimize systems.
• Contribute to strategic initiatives like IIoT, predictive analytics, and advanced automation solutions.
• Coordinate with IT for patching, updates, and cybersecurity of manufacturing apps.
• Maintain controls and automation equipment standards for compliance and excellence.
• Develop training programs and troubleshooting guides with maintenance and operations teams.

Skills

PLC programming

Industrial automation

Robotics control

SCADA/HMI knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Rockwell Automation

GE iFix

Ignition

Siemens

Beckhoff

Rexroth

Job description

About The Company

Keurig Dr Pepper (Nasdaq: KDP) is a prominent leader in the beverage industry, boasting a diverse portfolio of over 150 owned, licensed, and partner brands that cater to a wide array of consumer needs and occasions. Our North American segment commands leadership across categories such as carbonated soft drinks, water, juice, and mixers, with iconic brands including Dr Pepper, Canada Dry, Mott's, A&W, Peñafiel, GHOST, 7UP, Snapple, Clamato, and Core Hydration. Globally, our coffee division operates in more than 100 markets, featuring the renowned Keurig single-serve brewing system alongside brands like Peet’s, L’OR, and Jacobs, among others. With a dedicated team of over 50,000 employees, our mission is to enrich every beverage and coffee experience while making positive impacts on communities and the environment. We are committed to fostering a culture of growth, innovation, and inclusivity, providing robust benefits and opportunities for professional development to our team members.

About The Role

The Principal Automation Control Engineer position is based at our Ottumwa, IA facility. This role requires a highly skilled professional who can operate with minimal supervision, selecting appropriate hardware, developing software solutions, and creating comprehensive documentation. The engineer will verify compliance with industry codes and internal standards, mentor junior team members, and oversee third-party contractors. The role involves recommending new technologies, troubleshooting, debugging, commissioning, and maintaining both new and existing automated machinery. As a key project leader, the engineer will present ideas and concepts to stakeholders, manage major projects, and drive strategic automation initiatives.

This position plays a critical role in developing innovative solutions to complex problems, leveraging ingenuity and technical expertise. The engineer ensures that solutions align with organizational objectives and contribute to the development of new standards, techniques, and concepts. Recognized as an expert within the organization, the role significantly influences the company's future direction and operational efficiency. The engineer also acts as a liaison to management and external partners, representing the organization on technical and strategic matters.

Work is performed independently, with considerable discretion in setting objectives and determining approaches. The engineer will lead efforts to standardize PLC/SCADA systems, support operational and project teams, and contribute to the advancement of manufacturing data collection, reporting systems, and automation technologies such as IIoT and predictive analytics. Collaboration with IT teams ensures seamless updates, cybersecurity, and integration of manufacturing applications and servers. The role also involves maintaining controls and automation equipment standards, providing training, and developing troubleshooting guides to optimize operational uptime.

Qualifications

A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required. Candidates should possess at least five years of industrial automation experience within a manufacturing environment, demonstrating extensive PLC programming expertise. Preference is given to those familiar with Allen-Bradley systems, including the Rockwell FactoryTalk suite, Logix platform, and industrial network protocols. Knowledge of SCADA/HMI systems, especially GE iFix and Ignition, is essential. Experience with process and packaging automation, variable speed drives, servo drives, and robotic control systems (preferably GE-Fanuc) is highly desirable.

Proficiency in computer and industrial networks, along with familiarity with GE Plant Applications, Siemens, Bosch & Rexroth, Beckhoff, and database management, will be advantageous. Candidates should be capable of thriving in fast-paced environments, demonstrating problem-solving skills and adaptability. Additional experience with work order management, asset creation, and maintenance systems will be beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Lead the standardization of PLC/SCADA systems across the manufacturing network to ensure consistency and efficiency.
• Provide technical support to operations and project teams, resolving complex automation issues and enhancing productivity.
• Support the continuous improvement of manufacturing data collection, reporting systems, and automation processes.
• Collaborate with internal teams and third-party vendors to troubleshoot, resolve, and optimize automation systems.
• Contribute to strategic initiatives, including the integration of IIoT, predictive analytics, and advanced automation solutions.
• Coordinate with IT teams to implement seamless patching, updates, and cybersecurity measures for manufacturing applications and infrastructure.
• Maintain and develop controls and automation equipment standards to ensure compliance and operational excellence.
• Partner with maintenance and operations teams to develop training programs and troubleshooting guides for recurring issues.

Benefits

• Salary range: $96,800 - $120,000, with actual placement based on experience and skills.
• Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Paid Time Off (including parental leave, vacation, and sick leave).
• 401(k) plan with company match, Tuition Reimbursement, and Mileage Reimbursement.
• Annual performance-based bonus opportunity.
• Benefits are effective from Day 1 of employment, supporting your health, wellness, and financial security.

Equal Opportunity

Keurig Dr Pepper is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse environment and are proud to recruit, employ, and develop individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, national origin, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected status by law. We believe in fostering an inclusive culture where all employees are valued and empowered to contribute to our success.