Automation Project Lead - B&R, Packaging & AI

Serac Group; Carol Stream, Northern (IL, KY); 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

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.