Process Automation Project Engineer

Saigepartners; Muscatine (IA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Saigepartners is seeking a Process Automation Project Engineer in Muscatine, IA, to own automation initiatives in a heavy industrial setting, from concept to completion. You will lead projects, collaborate with operators and maintenance teams, and manage vendors for automation equipment and services, while troubleshooting and optimizing systems.

The role emphasizes technical leadership and training of operators and staff, with a focus on continuous improvement and reliability across electrical,

Qualifications

• Degree in Automation, Engineering, or related technical field (four-year preferred; two-year with relevant experience considered).
• Experience maintaining and supporting automation systems in an industrial/manufacturing environment.
• Automation experience in heavy industry; steel industry experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation projects from concept through completion within scope, schedule, and budget.
• Collaborate with operators, maintenance teams, and cross-functional departments to implement process improvements.
• Specify, source, and manage vendors for automation equipment and services.
• Troubleshoot, maintain, and optimize automation systems and equipment.
• Drive improvements related to systems such as water-cooling and reheating.
• Provide technical leadership, documentation, and project ownership for quality and reliability.
• Train and mentor operators and technical staff, promoting continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Skills

Automation troubleshooting

Industrial controls

Programming languages (C, C++, C#, VB)

Effective communication

Open-minded hands-on

Education

Engineering degree in Automation/Engineering

Four-year degree preferred; two-year with experience considered

Tools

Rockwell Automation / Allen-Bradley PLCs

Job description

Position: Process Automation Project Engineer (Muscatine, IA)

Job Overview: We are seeking a Process Automation Project Engineer to support and lead automation initiatives in a heavy industrial environment. The role offers hands‑on project ownership and the opportunity to drive improvements from concept through completion.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage automation projects from concept through completion, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, and budget.
• Collaborate closely with operators, maintenance teams, and cross‑functional departments to identify and implement process improvements.
• Specify, source, and manage vendors and suppliers for automation equipment and services.
• Troubleshoot, maintain, and optimize automation systems and equipment.
• Drive improvements related to systems such as water‑cooling and reheating.
• Provide technical leadership, documentation, and project ownership to ensure quality and reliability.
• Train and mentor operators and technical staff, promoting continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Degree in Automation, Engineering, or a related technical field (four‑year preferred; two‑year with relevant experience considered).
• Experience maintaining and supporting automation systems in an industrial or manufacturing environment.
• Automation experience in heavy industry, steel industry experience strongly preferred.
• Proficiency with Rockwell Automation / Allen‑Bradley PLCs and control systems.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills across electrical, controls, and automation systems.
• Effective communication skills with ability to work with operators, maintenance teams, and external suppliers.
• Knowledge of programming languages such as C, C++, C#, or VB.NET (a plus, not required).
• Open‑minded, hands‑on approach with a strong focus on innovation and continuous improvement.