Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Kalon Executive Search; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits

On-site role in San Diego

Job summary

Kalon Executive Search is seeking an Automation Engineer for manufacturing and packaging systems on-site in San Diego. You will design and support automation across filling, labeling, bottling, and cartoning lines, with hands-on PLC/SCADA troubleshooting and cross-functional collaboration.

Qualifications include a 7+ year track record in packaging automation, strong PLC/HMI skills, and familiarity with lean methods and GMP/validation processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related engineering field and 7+ years in packaging automation.
• Proficient in PLC programming and HMI/SCADA configuration.
• Experience with robotic systems and CIP/validation processes.
• Familiar with Industry 4.0, IoT platforms, and data analytics.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement automation for primary/secondary packaging lines.
• Provide hands-on support for PLCs, HMIs, SCADA; troubleshoot as needed.
• Diagnose issues to minimize downtime and maintain product quality.
• Improve packaging line efficiency using OEE and Lean Six Sigma.
• Support integration of automation tech for process optimization.
• Create GMP-compliant work instructions and train staff.
• Act as automation expert with cross-functional teams.
• Participate in IQ/OQ/PQ and regulatory compliance tasks.
• Stay current with industry trends and apply to Nordic Naturals processes.
• Develop predictive maintenance strategies using IoT and data analytics.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI/SCADA config

Robotic systems integration

GMP/QA collaboration

Lean Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Automation, Packaging Systems, Mechatronics, or Industrial Engineering

Tools

Rockwell Studio 5000

Siemens TIA Portal

Schneider EcoStruxure

FactoryTalk View

Ignition

Wonderware

GE iFIX

OSIsoft PI

SQL/Excel

Job description

Automation Engineer – Manufacturing & Packaging Systems

This is an on site role in San Diego, CA

Primary Responsibilities

Accommodation Notice:
To successfully perform in this role, the employee must be able to fulfill all responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodations. Accommodations may be provided to ensure individuals with disabilities can meet the essential job functions.

Essential Duties:

• Design and implement automation solutions for both primary and secondary packaging lines, including filling, labeling, bottling, cartoning, and related systems.
• Provide hands-on support and troubleshooting for PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and other controls used in production and packaging operations.
• Diagnose and resolve equipment issues to minimize downtime and uphold consistent product quality.
• Evaluate and enhance packaging line efficiency using OEE data, integrating Lean and Six Sigma practices.
• Recommend and support the integration of automation technologies for process optimization and productivity gains.
• Create and update GMP-compliant Work Instructions (WIs); provide training to production and packaging personnel.
• Act as a technical expert in automation systems and packaging manufacturing processes, providing ongoing floor-level support.
• Participate in change control and equipment qualification efforts (IQ/OQ/PQ), ensuring compliance with FDA, GMP, and other regulatory standards.
• Stay current with industry innovations in automation and packaging technology, and translate those trends into practical applications for Nordic Naturals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams—Production, Quality, Maintenance—to train operators and technicians on automation systems.
• Identify and develop predictive maintenance strategies using IoT and data analytics platforms.
• Contribute to the successful implementation of new ERP systems by working closely with other functional departments.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required.

Qualifications & Competencies

Education & Technical Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Automation, Packaging Systems, Mechatronics, or Industrial Engineering.
• Strong proficiency in PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens) and HMI/SCADA configuration.
• Experience integrating and programming robotic systems (FANUC, ABB, Yaskawa).
• Hands-on knowledge of CIP systems automation, including cycle validation and efficiency optimization.
• Familiarity with Industry 4.0 technologies, smart manufacturing tools, and IoT platforms.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on continuous process improvement.
• Excellent communication abilities for effective collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Project management capabilities with the ability to handle multiple priorities and timelines.
• Lean Six Sigma certification (Green or Black Belt) is highly preferred.

Professional Experience

• Minimum 7 years of direct experience in automation for packaging and production lines, preferably within the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, supplement, or food manufacturing sectors.
• Working knowledge of vision systems, servo motors, robotic automation (e.g., pick & place, palletizing), and conveyor integration.

Software & Technical Proficiencies

• PLC Tools: Rockwell Studio 5000, Siemens TIA Portal, Schneider EcoStruxure
• HMI/SCADA: FactoryTalk View, Ignition, Wonderware, GE iFIX
• Networking: Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP
• Robotics Software: FANUC ROBOGUIDE, ABB RobotStudio, Yaskawa MotoSim
• CAD/Design Tools: AutoCAD, SolidWorks Electrical, EPLAN
• Simulation/Modeling: Siemens Process Simulate, Arena Simulation
• Data & Analytics: OSIsoft PI, SQL databases, Excel (advanced functions/macros)
• ERP/MES: Understanding of SAP, Oracle, or specialized MES platforms
• Optional Coding: Scripting or programming experience a plus
• Maintenance Tools: CMMS platforms such as UpKeep, Fiix, IBM Maximo
• CIP Automation: SCADA/PLC-based recipe and sequence management for cleaning systems

Compensation:

$140,000-165,000 plus full benefits!

$140,000-$165,000 per year

Kalon Staffing is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.