Global Automation and Technology Lead — Robotics & Vision

Smithfield Foods; Nebraska; On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation package available

Job summary

Smithfield Foods is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer/Leader to shape controls architecture, machine safety, and digital manufacturing strategies across global sites. You will drive technology qualification, validation, and standardization while partnering with U.S.

and China teams to adopt best practices. The role requires in-depth knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks, plus a track record of delivering capital projects and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or Robotics Engineering.
• 5+ years of relevant experience in industrial automation, controls, robotics, or manufacturing engineering.
• Outstanding communication, leadership, and project management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and standardization of automation architectures, PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks across global operations.
• Lead qualification, validation, and acceptance testing of automation and advanced manufacturing systems.
• Conduct safety assessments and ensure compliance with OSHA, ANSI, NFPA, UL, and related codes.
• Collaborate with U.S., China, and WH Group teams to transfer proven automation technologies.
• Partner with OEMs and tech developers to implement next-gen automation and digital manufacturing solutions.
• Evaluate processing controls, packaging systems, robotics, machine vision, and end-of-line automation for efficiency and scalability.
• Lead capital projects as controls/automation engineering lead and SME.

Skills

PLC & HMIs knowledge

Communication & leadership

Project management

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Controls/Automation/Robotics Engineering

Job description

Smithfield Foods is seeking an experienced Automation Engineer/Leader to shape controls architecture, machine safety, and digital manufacturing strategies across global sites. You will drive technology qualification, validation, and standardization while partnering with U.S.

and China teams to adopt best practices. The role requires in-depth knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks, plus a track record of delivering capital projects and ensuring regulatory compliance.