Digital Process Automation Engineer

Charter Automotive; Woodstock (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with employer matching

Paid time off (PTO)

Job summary

Charter Automotive in Woodstock, IL seeks a lead automation engineer to design and execute advanced automation solutions. This role involves collaborating across teams to tackle complex production challenges, establishing standards, and implementing scalable improvements.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s Degree and has over 6 years of experience in OT systems and software automation. Comprehensive benefits include health, dental, vision, and a 401(k) plan with employer matching.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in OT systems or software engineering.
• Experience leading cross-functional initiatives and projects.
• Advanced programming and system architecture experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead MES, HMI, and production system solutions.
• Establish OT system architecture and integration strategies.
• Drive continuous improvement and innovation in automation.

Skills

OT systems experience

Software automation platforms

System integration

Strong communication skills

Leadership

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or Computer Science

Tools

Microsoft SQL Server (MSSQL)

Snowflake

Alteryx

Rockwell FactoryTalk ProductionCentre

Automation Anywhere

Job description

Job Summary

Lead the design and execution of advanced automation and OT solutions across the business unit. Partner with cross‑functional teams to identify and solve complex production and business challenges, establish standards, and drive scalable improvements.

Location & Travel

Woodstock, IL – Travel up to 10% to other Charter Manufacturing facilities. Relocation benefits available.

Key Responsibilities

• Architect and lead MES, HMI, and production system solutions.
• Serve as the technical authority for solution architecture across MES and software automation platforms within the business unit.
• Define OT system architecture and integration strategies.
• Lead complex automation initiatives across OT and IT systems using software automation platforms.
• Establish and scale enterprise‑grade automation frameworks and reusable solutions.
• Identify and solve production, quality, and efficiency challenges.
• Establish standards, frameworks, and best practices.
• Oversee system integrations across MES and controls layers.
• Lead commissioning, upgrades, and large‑scale implementations.
• Mentor engineers and develop team capabilities.
• Drive adoption of emerging technologies and continuous improvement.
• Lead deployment, commissioning, and validation of solutions in production environments.
• Ensure data integrity, quality, and consistency across integrated systems and reporting solutions.
• Drive user adoption and change management across the business unit.
• Maintain version control, documentation, and traceability for solutions.
• Follow Environmental, Quality, and Safety Management System procedures and requirements.
• Support systems operating in a 24/7 manufacturing environment as required.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• 6+ years of experience in OT systems, software automation platforms, or software engineering.
• Strong experience with MES, system integration, and software automation platforms.
• Experience with database and data tools such as Microsoft SQL Server (MSSQL), Snowflake data lake, and Alteryx.
• Experience with GenAI platforms and tools.
• Advanced programming and system architecture experience.
• Experience leading projects and cross‑functional initiatives.
• Strong communication, leadership, and problem‑solving skills.

Nice to Haves

• Experience with large‑scale MES implementations, including Rockwell FactoryTalk ProductionCentre.
• Deep experience with software automation platforms (RPA, low‑code/no‑code, workflow orchestration tools), preferably Automation Anywhere.
• Experience with AI/GenAI‑enabled automation solutions.
• Experience managing vendors and external partners.
• Knowledge of manufacturing standards (ISA‑95, IEC/ISO62264).
• Experience with cloud platforms and enterprise architectures.
• Experience with cybersecurity principles and practices in OT and IT environments.
• Experience applying Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.

Salary Range

$100,000 – $125,000 (actual base pay will depend on job‑related skills, experience, and qualifications).

Benefits

We offer comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits, along with a 401(k) plan that includes employer matching and profit sharing. Additionally, we provide company‑paid life insurance, disability coverage, and paid time off (PTO).