Lead Global Automation & Smart Manufacturing Engineer

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Minneapolis (MN)

On-site

USD 95,000 - 130,000

Full time

8 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Relocation package

Job summary

Smithfield Foods, Inc. in Minnesota seeks a Senior Automation Engineer to lead controls, robotics, and manufacturing technology deployment across global operations. The role collaborates with U.S. and China teams, validates technologies, ensures safety standards, and drives capital projects with suppliers and OEMs. Travel >50% is required.

You will shape architecture, standards, and digital manufacturing initiatives within a large, sustainable food company.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Controls/Automation/Robotics or related field with 5+ years of automation experience.
Strong knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, industrial networking, and machine safety systems.
Experience qualifying and validating manufacturing equipment.
Experience with robotics, machine vision, inspection tech, and safety systems.
Experience working with global engineering teams and multi-site manufacturing.

Responsibilities

Lead development and standardization of controls architectures and automation standards across global operations.
Lead qualification and validation of automation, robotics, machine vision, and inspection technologies.
Conduct machine safety assessments and ensure regulatory compliance.
Collaborate with US/China/WH Group teams to transfer and standardize technologies.
Develop next-gen automation and digital manufacturing solutions with OEMs and developers.
Evaluate processing controls, packaging systems, and end-of-line automation for scalability.
Conduct supplier audits and system validation activities early in projects.
Serve as controls/automation engineering lead for strategic capital projects.