Global Automation & Robotics Solutions Lead

Smithfield Foods, Inc.; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Smithfield Foods is seeking an Automation Engineering leader to guide controls architectures, PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks across global operations. This role will standardize automation standards and drive safety and regulatory compliance.

You will partner with U.S., China, and WH Group teams to transfer proven technologies, evaluate new automation, and lead capital projects. Domestic travel >50% is required; relocation is available.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field and 5+ years of experience in industrial automation, controls, robotics, or manufacturing engineering.
• Strong knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, industrial networking, controls architecture, and machine safety systems.
• Experience qualifying and validating manufacturing equipment.
• Experience with robotics, machine vision, inspection technologies, and safety systems.
• Experience working with global engineering teams, international OEMs, and multi-site manufacturing organizations.
• Knowledge of OSHA, ANSI, RIA, NFPA, UL, and electrical code requirements.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and project management skills.
• Ability to travel domestically greater than 50% and internationally as required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the qualification and deployment of controls, robotics, machine vision, inspection, and automation technologies across processing, packaging, and end-of-line operations.
• Serve as the technical authority for automation architecture, machine safety, controls integration, and regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with U.S., China, and WH Group teams to evaluate and transfer proven automation technologies.
• Develop and standardize automation architectures, PLCs, HMIs, and enterprise automation standards across global operations.
• Lead safety assessments and ensure compliance with OSHA, ANSI, RIA, NFPA, UL, and electrical codes.
• Drive innovation by partnering with OEMs and technology developers to implement next-generation automation solutions.
• Lead capital projects as controls/automation lead, including equipment design reviews and implementation support.

Skills

Industrial automation

Robotics

Machine vision

Project management

Cross-border collaboration

Communication

Travel >50%

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PLCs

HMIs

Industrial networks

Safety standards (OSHA/ANSI/RIA/NFPA)

Job description

Smithfield Foods is seeking an Automation Engineering leader to guide controls architectures, PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks across global operations. This role will standardize automation standards and drive safety and regulatory compliance.

You will partner with U.S., China, and WH Group teams to transfer proven technologies, evaluate new automation, and lead capital projects. Domestic travel >50% is required; relocation is available.