Lead Automation Engineer

PPC Partners, Inc.; Wisconsin; On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

PPC Partners, Inc. seeks a Lead Automation Engineer to lead design, programming, implementation and commissioning of industrial automation systems for manufacturing and processes.

You will provide technical leadership across projects and work with project managers, designers, engineers, field personnel and customers. Mentor junior engineers, support project planning and execution, ensure safety and industry standards, and promote continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or equivalent combination of experience.
• 10+ years experience in the automation field.
• Proven ability to lead automation projects and provide technical leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of automation and control system solutions.
• Provide technical leadership across automation projects.
• Mentor junior engineers and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Ensure safety, quality, and adherence to industry standards.
• Maintain strong customer relationships and project execution.

Skills

Automation design

PLCs & SCADA

Project leadership

Customer interface

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Equivalent experience

Tools

Excel

Word

Outlook

Teams

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

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
• 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
• 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
• 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

PPC Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer.