Automation Engineering Manager

ADP; West Allis (WI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Blast Cleaning Technologies, Inc. is seeking an Automation Engineering Manager to lead the design of PLCs/HMI for automated systems and to coordinate with controls engineers across projects.

You will oversee drawings, BOM management, and ensure manufacturability while traveling ~20% to job sites for installation and troubleshooting. The role requires a manufacturing background and leadership experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field.
• Experience designing automation systems and leading engineering teams.
• Strong proficiency with SolidWorks, Rockwell, and Siemens software.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, program, test, and commission automated PLC and HMIs per SOPs.
• Collaborate with Controls Engineers to integrate mechanical solutions with PLCs and robotics.
• Produce electrical machine schematics and panel layouts; manage BOM in ERP.

Skills

Communication

Team collaboration

Prioritization

DFM/ DFA

English writing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Rockwell PLC software

Siemens PLC software

Rockwell HMI software

MS Office

MS Project or Smartsheet

Job description

Blast Cleaning Technologies, Inc. (BCT) is proud to be the leader in shot blast innovation! We are dedicated to our customers, resulting in continuous company growth year over year.

Why Work at BCT?

Highly Competitive Pay and Benefit Plans: We pay for skill and talent.

Medical Insurance: 90% of Insurance Premiums covered by BCT!!! Low deductible, no coninsurance, & great provider network.

Engaged Leadership: You will love and know our CEO. Work with an ethical, hardworking, & interactive leader who listens to employees at all levels.

Second Chance Employer: If you have the skills and work ethic, we will give you a chance.

Comprehensive Benefits and 401K: We offer a full range of benefits & 401K match.

Generous PTO and Paid Holidays: Take advantage of our generous PTO plan and many paid U.S. holidays.

Onsite HR and IT Department: We provide dedicated onsite HR and IT support to ensure our employees' needs are met. We won't send you to a 1-800 number for help.

Historic Location:Work in our over $2 million investment in upgrades and refurbishment at our historic West Allis location.

Casual Work Environment: Enjoy a casual dress code and friendly workplace.

Tuition Reimbursement:Invest in your future with our tuition reimbursement program.

Amenities: Enjoy free coffee, popcorn, and summer cookouts.

Veteran Support: BCT supports and honors veterans.

Made in America: All our components are made in the USA.

Our PACT

Our core values are rooted in the visionary spirit of our CEO, Carl Panzenhagen, who began his career as a teenager working in a foundry. As an adult, his extensive industry experience and dedication led him to create a company free from bureaucracy and grounded in ethical business practices. Guided by Carl’s leadership, a small team of five evolved into a self-sustaining manufacturing powerhouse. Today, BCT proudly stands 300+ employees strong and celebrates the completion of our cutting-edge foundry, a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation.

Job Summary:

Under the direction of the Director of Electrical & Automation, the Automation Engineering Manager will work as an integral part of the team to design and detail drawings in accordance with automation project schedules and lead a team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, design, program, test, and commission automated PLC and HMIs to BCT guidelines and SOPs.
• Work closely with Controls Engineers to integrate mechanical solutions with PLCs, robotics, vision systems, and smart sensors for cohesive, optimal designed automation solutions.
• Design and create electrical machine schematics and panel layouts for automated systems with the integration of robotics, in collaboration with engineering, and shop needs.
• Submit drawings to lead engineers and/or team leads for review prior to release.
• Maintain BOM and part information within the Epicor ERP system.
• Approximately 20% travel to jobsites to support installations and troubleshooting.
• Utilize deep expertise in automation to ensure smooth integration with existing systems.
• Collaborate with Electrical, Manufacturing, and Product Development teams to ensure design feasibility, automation readiness, and system reliability.
• Act as a Manufacturing SME in new product development (NPD), providing guidance on design-for-manufacturability (DFM) and design-for-automation (DFA)
• Apply knowledge of automated sheet metal fabrication (laser cutting, forming, bending, welding).
• Helps drive and support BCT’s Culture and Core Values.

Qualifications:

• Proficiency in SolidWorks or equivalent 3D software.
• Proficiency in Rockwell or Siemens PLC software.
• Proficiency in Rockwell HMI software.
• Demonstrate ability to successfully design equipment to function, budget, and timelines.
• Ability to prioritize workload and meet company objectives.
• Strong interpersonal & written skills with desire to be an active team member.
• Demonstrate proficiency with computer skills MS Office, MS Project or Smartsheet.
• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, engineering, or related field.