Automation Engineer - MES/SCADA, PLC & HMI Expert

Smithfield Foods; Sioux Falls (SD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Smithfield Foods is seeking an Automation Engineer to lead automation projects in the pork processing domain. You will translate requirements into software solutions, develop control apps, interfaces and databases, and collaborate with operations to meet technical standards.

The role requires design, field work, vendor coordination and startup support, with up to 50% travel. Proficiency in PLC/PAC programming and experience with Ignition/FactoryTalk View are highly valued.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent with 2+ years of relevant experience.
• Bilingual English and Mandarin preferred.
• Proficient in PLC/PAC programming languages.
• Experience with Ignition and FactoryTalk View platforms preferred.
• Knowledge of vision systems and programming.
• Proficient in operator interface development using Ignition, Java, or Rockwell Software.
• Knowledge of database architecture and structured query language.
• Strong knowledge of process controls, motor controls, instrumentation and automation principles.
• Experience with AutoCAD drawing.

Responsibilities

• Develop preliminary engineering designs and device specifications.
• Conduct feasibility studies and develop project cost estimates.
• Determine design criteria per standards and codes.
• Perform field work and translate projects into as-built drawings.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance to develop design specs.
• Develop user interfaces, reports, analytical tools and automation code.
• Coordinate with vendors on layouts and schedules.
• Provide startup support and training.
• Develop control applications and database architecture.
• Conduct pre-project planning and sustainability studies.
• Assist with troubleshooting and downtime analysis.
• Travel up to 50% of the time.

Skills

PLC programming

Ignition

FactoryTalk View

Vision systems

Java

Python

SQL

AutoCAD

Rockwell Software

Industrial networking

Operator interface development

Education

Bachelor's Degree in engineering or related field

Tools

Ignition

FactoryTalk View

AutoCAD

SQL

Rockwell Software

Job description

Smithfield Foods is seeking an Automation Engineer to lead automation projects in the pork processing domain. You will translate requirements into software solutions, develop control apps, interfaces and databases, and collaborate with operations to meet technical standards.

The role requires design, field work, vendor coordination and startup support, with up to 50% travel. Proficiency in PLC/PAC programming and experience with Ignition/FactoryTalk View are highly valued.