Automation Service Engineer

PPC Partners, Inc.; Columbus (GA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

PPC Partners is seeking a Senior Engineer, Automation Service in Columbus, GA. The role focuses on designing, programming, installing, and supporting industrial automation systems, with hands-on PLC/HMI work and on-site client collaboration.

You will mentor junior staff, assist with project scoping and estimates, and stay current with evolving automation technologies in a fast-paced field-service environment.

Qualifications

• 10+ years hands-on industrial automation experience across manufacturing, material handling, processing, logistics.
• Deep expertise in PLC & HMI programming, sensors, safety systems, IT integration.
• Strong problem-solving and field-service capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, install, and support automated systems across multiple industrial applications.
• Lead troubleshooting on-site and provide ongoing technical support and maintenance.
• Mentor junior engineers and assist with project scoping and estimates.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI programming

Electrical & mechanical drawings

Troubleshooting

Field-service

Leadership

Safety compliance

Education

High School Diploma

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Ethernet/IP

Profinet

Modbus

VFDs & motor controls

Job description

Pieper Automation serves as a turnkey automation controls partner to companies that are in need of innovative solutions, strategies & support and is a full solution & services provider for industrial design and integration of machines and systems, including process development and improvement, new equipment design and machine enhancement to help our customers compete successfully in today's highly competitive global environment.

We are a leader in providing complete Industrial automation solutions to manufacturers throughout North America. This includes small, mid-size and Fortune 100 companies in virtually every industry. We pride ourselves in our unique ability to provide control, mechanical and process engineering, along with custom assembly machine manufacturing and panel building, allowing us to deliver your solution seamlessly -- from one supplier. This allows us to deliver the best value to your company through efficiencies in both cost and time management. With thousands of successfully completed projects in our portfolio, we provide an unprecedented breadth of expertise, service, and experience to meet all your needs.

Job Description

The Senior Engineer, Automation Service is responsible for the design, programming, installation, and support of industrial automation systems. This position involves direct collaboration with clients, on-site troubleshooting, and the delivery of tailored automation solutions. The engineer will also support business development efforts by assisting with project scoping and estimates, while mentoring junior team members and staying current with evolving technologies. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, hands-on experience with PLCs and HMIs, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced, field-service-oriented environment.

At PPC Partners we believe in the Power to Serve along with the Pursuit of Excellence. As such the following values guide our behaviors: A Servant's Heart -- Focus on the Needs of Others, Wisdom -- Insightful, Integrity -- Honesty and Trustworthy, Courage -- Decisive and Confident in Others, Humility -- Modest and Respectful, Passion -- Unfailing Dedication

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

System Design, Programming, & Implementation:

• Design, program, install, and support automated systems across a variety of industrial applications
• Program PLCs & HMIs from scratch or modify existing codes to meet project requirements
• Read and interpret electrical & mechanical drawings

Service, Support, and Troubleshooting:

• Perform onsite service calls, diagnosing issues and delivering solutions efficiently
• Provide ongoing technical support and maintenance for deployed systems to ensure reliable performance
• Support business development by identifying opportunities, scoping work, and assisting with estimates
• Continuously learn and adapt to new technologies and industry trends
• Mentor and support junior engineers and technicians as the department grows
• Collaborate with customers to recommend improvements and value-added solutions

Safety/Hazard Recognition & Elimination:

• Pre-plan and identify the methods to eliminate hazards daily by work task.
• Execute skill in observing habits and hazards of others and bringing it to their attention.
• Uphold safety as the most important goal of our company. Support goal of achieving zero accidents.
• Promote and encourage open communication between field and office regarding all safety concerns, suggestions, improvements, and PPE needed.
• Obtain safety training as expected by all company personnel.

Qualifications and Requirements

• High School Diploma (or equivalent) required
• Higher education in a relevant field preferred
• 10+ years of hands-on industrial automation experience across manufacturing, material handling, processing, logistics, and other industries
• Deep expertise in automation and controls, including PLC & HMI programming, sensors, VFDs & motor controls, safety systems, IT system integration, and communication networks (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, etc.)

Experience, Skill and Abilities

• Positive safety attitude and personal integrity -- both are non-negotiable
• Strong mechanical aptitude to complement electrical and automation skills
• Ability to reverse-engineer and develop solutions for 3rd party or legacy systems
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills under time-sensitive conditions
• Excellent communication skills--able to translate complex technical concepts for both engineers and non-technical customers
• Entrepreneurial mindset--always seeking ways to add value, drive growth, and improve operations
• A natural leader who aligns with our core values and sets an example for others

Physical Requirements

• Office and field environment requiring sitting and standing. Travel to various work sites is essential, possibly exposing employee to outdoor elements, noise and the need to stand and walk.

Pieper Automation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

PPC Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer.