Automation Engineer II

Serac Group; Carol Stream (IL); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Serac Group in Illinois seeks an Automation Engineer to lead development and execution of automation projects across discrete manufacturing lines, from modules to integrated production lines. The role emphasizes advanced automation, B&R control, motion systems, and emerging e-beam/laser tech.

Responsibilities include hardware selection, system integration, project leadership, risk analyses, and industry 4.0 adoption with field trials and customer validation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or equivalent technical field, or 10+ years of relevant automation experience.
• Proven troubleshooting experience with PLCs (B&R), VFDs, HMIs, SCADA, and 480VAC equipment.
• Experience with Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLCs and industrial networks is preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication; ability to lead cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation design and development, selecting hardware and writing specifications.
• Direct engineers to deliver fully integrated mechatronic systems and provide advanced troubleshooting.
• Plan and lead projects within budgets and milestones; coordinate supplier benchmarking.
• Perform risk analyses, ensure compliance, and create clear project documentation.
• Evaluate Industry 4.0, machine intelligence, and AI concepts; conduct prototype testing and field trials.
• Travel to customer sites as required and train personnel.

Skills

Automation design

Motion control

Structured Text

System integration

Team leadership

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering

Tools

Automation Studio

Rockwell Safety Builder

SISTEMA

SmarTeam

QAD ERP

Job description

Job Summary

The Automation Engineer leads the development and execution of automation projects in a discrete manufacturing environment, supporting systems ranging from individual functions and modules to complete machines and integrated production lines. This role oversees all project phases—from research and concept development through industrialization—with a focus on advanced automation, B&R-based control and motion systems, and the integration of emerging technologies such as e-beam and laser applications.

Essential Functions

• Automation Design & Development: Lead hardware selection and develop control software to meet machine, module, and system specifications while guiding (but not drafting) hardware design.
• Technical Leadership & Integration: Direct internal and external engineers to deliver fully integrated mechatronic systems, providing advanced troubleshooting support beyond standard expertise.
• Project & Supplier Management: Plan and lead automation projects within defined budgets and milestones; manage development teams, write specifications, and coordinate supplier benchmarking and innovation.
• Analysis, Compliance & Documentation: Perform and coordinate functional and risk analyses, adhere to development standards, and produce clear technical documentation for project execution and follow-up.
• Advanced Technology & Deployment: Evaluate and apply Industry 4.0, machine intelligence, and AI concepts; conduct prototype testing and field trials, train personnel, and support customer-site validation (including travel as required).
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Automation & Motion Control Expertise: Proficient in B&R PLC and motion control systems using Automation Studio; strong Structured Text programming skills (C++/.NET a plus).
• Machine Safety & Compliance: Working knowledge of ISO 13849, IEC 60204, and NFPA 79; capable of performing risk assessments and safety circuit validation using Rockwell Safety Automation Builder and SISTEMA.
• Packaging Machinery Experience: Prior hands‑on experience with automated packaging equipment, including system integration and troubleshooting.
• Systems, Tools & Data Management: Familiar with PLM systems (e.g., SmarTeam) and ERP/MRP platforms (e.g., QAD) to support engineering documentation and production workflows.
• Professional & Collaboration Skills: Detail‑oriented, organized, and effective working independently or leading cross‑functional teams; strong verbal and written communication skills.

Education and Experience

• Education & Background: Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or equivalent technical field, or 10+ years of relevant industrial automation experience.
• Controls & Troubleshooting Experience: Proven experience troubleshooting industrial control systems, including PLCs (B&R), VFDs, HMIs, SCADA, process instrumentation, and 480VAC control equipment.
• Preferred Technologies: Experience with Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLCs, industrial communication networks, and field instrumentation preferred.

Physical Demands

Work is performed largely in an office or climate-controlled warehouse environment. Some hours will be spent at various remote locations. Hours of work are generally during regular business. There will be some variation in work hours due to employee shift schedules, special projects, deadlines, customer needs and various other business concerns. Out of town and overnight travel, both local and international, may be required for business and education, by air and/or auto. Must be able to lift and carry up to 35 pounds, as well as the ability to bend, kneel, walk or sit for extended periods of time. The ability to reach above head and below knees is also required.

This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by the employee assigned to this position. It does not state or imply that these are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to the job. The employee may be required to perform other job‑related duties as requested. All requirements and duties are subject to change over time.