Lead Automation Engineer

PPC Partners Inc.; Town of Wrightstown (WI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

PPC Partners Inc. in Wisconsin seeks a Lead Automation Engineer to guide design, programming, and commissioning of industrial automation systems for manufacturing processes. You will lead PLC/SCADA projects, mentor junior engineers, and ensure safety and quality across activities.

The role requires 10+ years in automation, a Bachelor’s degree in engineering, and strong leadership to deliver reliable, scalable solutions for customers and field teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of automation experience with leadership roles.
• Proven ability to lead automation projects and guide teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, programming, and commissioning of automation systems per customer specs and standards.
• Provide technical leadership across PLCs, HMIs, and control architecture.
• Mentor junior engineers and support project planning and execution.
• Ensure safety, quality, and compliance across projects.

Skills

Automation leadership

PLC/SCADA design

Control system architecture

Team mentoring

Project leadership

Safety compliance

Drive systems robotics

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Role, Function & Organization

The Lead Automation Engineer is responsible for leading the design, programming, implementation, and commissioning of industrial automation systems for manufacturing and industrial processes. This role provides technical leadership across automation projects, guiding engineering efforts involving PLCs, HMIs, control system architecture, and system integration. The Lead Automation Engineer works closely with Project Managers, designers, engineers, field personnel, and customers to deliver reliable, efficient, and scalable automation solutions. In addition to hands‑on engineering responsibilities, this role mentors junior engineers, supports project planning and execution, and ensures technical quality, safety, and adherence to industry standards.

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

Automation Design & Programming:

• Lead the design and development of automation and control system solutions based on customer specifications, project requirements, and industry standards
• Develop, review, and approve functional specifications and system design
• Help guide team to ensure control system designs are aligned with project standards and best practices

Project Execution & Engineering Support

• Serve as a technical lead for automation projects with scope definition, schedules, budgets, resource planning, and risk identification
• Review bid documents, specifications, and estimates to ensure technical accuracy and feasibility
• Lead equipment and control system selection to meet performance, safety, and compliance requirements needed
• Ensure project deliverables are completed accurately, on time, and aligned with customer expectations

Customer & Team Communication/Collaboration

• Work both independently and as part of a cross‑functional project team that includes designers and other engineers
• Collaborate closely with Project Managers, designers, engineers, vendors, and field teams to ensure coordinated project execution
• Communicate clearly and professionally with customers regarding system functionality, progress, challenges, and resolutions
• Build and maintain strong customer relationships through technical excellence, responsiveness, and reliable support

Mentorship & Professional Development

• Provide guidance, mentorship, and technical support to less experienced engineers
• Continue developing technical skills in programming, process controls, system integration, and project management
• Promote continuous improvement in engineering processes, tools, and design standards
• Stay current with evolving automation technologies, programming platforms, control system standards, and industry trends

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 value 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

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (or related field) OR equivalent combination of experience and education required
• 10+ years experience in the automation field
• Demonstrated experience leading automation projects and providing technical leadership

Experience, Skill And Abilities

• Positive safety attitude and personal integrity -- both are non‑negotiable
• Extensive knowledge and experience in control system design, machine safety, PLCs, SCADA/Operator Interfaces.
• Knowledge and experience in drive systems, robotics, process controls, and/or vision inspection systems is a plus.
• Ability to read and comprehend automation equipment manuals and electrical schematics
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams)
• Ability to work independently or provide leadership to a project team
• Ability to multi‑task and prioritize various daily responsibilities
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills
• Excellent customer service orientation; ability to build trust with internal teams and external clients
• Ability to think conceptually and apply practical, real‑world solutions
• Strong self‑motivation, work ethic, and drive for career growth