Mid Level Electrical Engineer

Soap Creek Resources; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Soap Creek Resources in Cedar Rapids, IA seeks an Automation Engineer to design, develop, debug, and implement process and automation control systems that improve safety, quality, and productivity. You will lead projects from concept through completion, collaborating with cross-functional teams and driving continuous improvement.

The role requires 3–5+ years in industrial automation, a Bachelor’s in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, and strong PLC knowledge (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or B&R).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering.
• 3–5+ years in industrial automation.
• Knowledge of UL/CSA/CE and electrical codes.
• Experience with major PLC platforms (AB/Siemens/B&R).

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, debug, and ensure safe operation of control systems.
• Manage electrical and automation projects from concept through completion.
• Create master plans, automation strategies, and software configurations.
• Troubleshoot complex system issues and validate designs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and write PLC code.
• Perform root cause analysis and drive improvement actions.

Skills

PLC programming

Automation systems

Project management

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLC

Siemens PLC

B&R Automation

CAD software

Job description

This position is responsible for designing and implementing control systems that optimize manufacturing processes and improve safety, quality, efficiency, and productivity. The role serves as a technical and project management resource to department managers, driving continuous improvement through data-driven analysis and cause-and-effect problem solving. This position oversees projects from concept through completion and promotes a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Duties:

Including but not limited to:

• Design, develop, debug, and ensure the safe operation of process and automation control systems.
• Manage electrical and automation projects from concept through completion, ensuring adherence to schedule and budget requirements.
• Create master plans, automation strategies, and software configurations, and troubleshoot complex system issues.
• Source, evaluate, and recommend appropriate vendors and components.
• Collaborate with the Engineering Manager to establish and enforce electrical design standards, design change control processes, and documentation requirements.
• Write and debug multi-station PLC code and develop device drivers.
• Program MMI devices and design associated interface circuitry.
• Determine power and load requirements and identify system limitations or restrictions.
• Design logic systems for sequence, timing, and process control functions.
• Design and draft diagrams for cable connections and electrical layouts.
• Develop processes and controls for design verification.
• Create quality testing procedures and supporting tools.
• Take full ownership and accountability for assigned projects and outcomes.
• Identify performance issues on new or existing equipment, perform root cause analysis, and recommend corrective actions.
• Actively participate in brainstorming and whiteboard sessions for new designs and constructively critique existing designs.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, software, and controls engineering.
• Perform or assist with equipment and material testing and validation studies.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering preferred.
• 3 to 5+ years of experience in the industrial automation industry.
• Knowledge of current technologies and applicable electrical codes and standards (UL, CSA, CE).
• Working knowledge of major PLC platforms and control devices, including Allen-Bradley, Siemens, B&R, or similar systems.
• Strong understanding of electromechanical relationships within complete automation systems.
• Demonstrated motivation to improve engineering procedures and best practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Excellent technical, analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Comprehensive knowledge of code compliance requirements and industry standards.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while thriving in a collaborative team environment.
• Experience working in or closely with machine shop environments is a plus, including welding, milling, turning, and sheet metal fabrication.
• Knowledge and experience with 3D CAD software, such as Autodesk Inventor (preferred), SolidWorks, or equivalent.

Disclaimer: Please note that we are unable to provide job sponsorships, including, but not limited to, visas, corp-to-corp arrangements (C2C), or any other form of sponsorship for employment. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.