Automation Engineer – AGV Systems for Heavy Industry

Wheatland Tube, LLC; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 125,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition assistance

401(k) with company match

Medical and dental benefits

Job summary

Zekelman Industries in Chicago, IL is seeking an Automation Engineer (AGV Specialist) to own programming, commissioning and optimization of a large-scale AGV system. You’ll bridge hardware and software across indoor bays, outdoor yards and build-to-build corridors to ensure 24/7 operation and peak throughput.

The role requires 3+ years in autonomous systems or heavy industrial robotic workcells, strong PLC/HMI skills and hands-on experience with LiDAR SLAM, RTK GPS or magnetic guidance in a

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation or related field.
• 3+ years programming and commissioning autonomous systems or heavy industrial robotics.
• Experience with PLC languages (Ladder, Structured Text, Function Block).
• Knowledge of EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus or CAN bus.

Responsibilities

• Program, configure, and optimize AGV routing and dispatch sequencing.
• Develop PLC and HMI integration with bay doors, chargers and conveyors.
• Tune hybrid navigation systems, LiDAR SLAM and GPS/RTK or magnetic guidance.
• Configure safety systems including laser scanners and E-stop circuits.
• Integrate AGV fleet software with MES/WMS/ERP via industrial protocols.
• Perform field testing, path validation and load testing in varying conditions.
• Create technical docs and training for maintenance teams.

Skills

AGV programming

PLC programming

HMI development

LiDAR SLAM

Industrial networking

Safety systems

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

Rockwell/Allen-Bradley

Siemens

Beckhoff

Job description

Zekelman Industries in Chicago, IL is seeking an Automation Engineer (AGV Specialist) to own programming, commissioning and optimization of a large-scale AGV system. You’ll bridge hardware and software across indoor bays, outdoor yards and build-to-build corridors to ensure 24/7 operation and peak throughput.

The role requires 3+ years in autonomous systems or heavy industrial robotic workcells, strong PLC/HMI skills and hands-on experience with LiDAR SLAM, RTK GPS or magnetic guidance in a