Manufacturing Automation Systems Engineer

Penn State Univeristy; New Kensington (Westmoreland County); On-site; USD 76,000 - 116,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Automation Systems Engineer to design and maintain advanced software solutions for smart manufacturing systems. This role involves collaborating with corporate partners to develop innovative automation solutions, enhancing manufacturing operations through digital technologies. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in industrial programming and automation, with a passion for teaching and demonstrating cutting-edge technologies. Join a dynamic team committed to advancing manufacturing excellence and driving digital transformation in the industry.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in digital/smart technology and integrated IT/OT systems.
• Proficiency in industrial programming languages and automation systems.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with teams to integrate automation and control systems.
• Develop and demonstrate software solutions for Industry 4.0 technologies.
• Create documentation for software tools and serve as a subject matter expert.

Skills

Industrial Programming Languages

Automation and Control Systems

Database Management

Graphical Interfaces (MES, SCADA, PLC)

Data Capture and Analytics

AI/Machine Learning

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science

Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The Manufacturing Automation Systems Engineer position is an experienced and motivated automation and control specialist who works in high-performance manufacturing systems to design, develop and maintain advanced software solutions for smart manufacturing systems, supporting the manufacturing programming and computational systems, database management and visualization of operational data.
The successful candidate is knowledgeable in advocating for operational technology systems integration to support digital systems technology demonstrations and brings manufacturing experience and expertise designing, coding, testing, implementing, integrating with IT systems, for manufacturing-specific high-performance platforms and software. This role requires proficiency in common industrial programming languages and demonstrated experience in implementing common industry communication protocols and software systems for graphical interfaces, including MES, SCADA, PLC programming, and database management.
This position will guide and participate in the design of state-of-the-art infrastructure for digital automation development, smart manufacturing technology and equipment and software systems associated with the Digital Foundry’s Digital Learning and Demonstration Lab. You will assist in the definition of industry applications and solutions across the ISA-95 and ISA-88 standards, execute and manage system design consistent with standard IT principles and methodologies. This role will apply their knowledge and skills to both the teaching of concepts and the development of prototype demonstrations in the areas of integrated systems for smart manufacturing operations, demonstrating interoperable systems such as dynamic modeling, intelligent automation, networked equipment and sensors, leveraging data from the plant-floor through the development and use of cloud-based and server-based platforms and databases.
Primary responsibilities will include:

1. Collaborating with the Digital Foundry team, corporate technology partners and manufacturing companies to define, develop, and demonstrate the integration of automation and control systems including industrial PC’s, process computing networks, and data storage systems. - 30%
2. Working closely with the Digital Foundry Senior Manager Projects & Technology and Engineering staff on the development and execution of digital manufacturing technologies and solutions for local manufacturers by providing automation and control systems design support and guidance. Developing and demonstrating innovative software-based solutions enabling the utilization of Industry 4.0 technologies such as advanced sensing and controls, product and process modeling, digital twins/digital thread, data capture and analytics, and AI/machine learning, to demonstrate improved processes and productivity in manufacturing. - 30%
3. Proposing and implementing new features, improvements, and updates to enhance functionality and usability of key manufacturing operations management tools, databases, and integration of smart manufacturing connected systems. - 20%
4. Creating and maintaining comprehensive documentation for software tools, including user guides, technical specifications, and all university approvals and maintenance requirements. - 10%
5. Serving as an instructor and subject matter expert in area of expertise for workforce and student training, demonstrations, and events at the Digital Foundry. - 10%

This position requires:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, software engineering or equivalent
• 3+ years industrial manufacturing experience in digital / smart technology and integrated IT/OT systems.

This is a term position that is funded for 1 year, with excellent possibility of renewal.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:

$76,700.00 - $115,100.00

Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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