Senior AGV Automation Engineer

WTL Wheatland Tube, LLC; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 125,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition assistance

Bonus plan

401(k) with company match

Medical and dental benefits

Job summary

Zekelman Industries in Chicago is seeking a highly skilled Automation Engineer (AGV Specialist) to own programming, commissioning and optimization of our newly installed AGV system across indoor bays and outdoor yards. You will bridge software and hardware, ensuring 24/7 operation and high throughput in a heavy industrial environment.

Requirements include a Bachelor's in Electrical/Mechatronics/Automation or related field and 3+ years programming AGVs/AMRs or robotic workcells, plus PLC/HMI

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience programming and commissioning autonomous systems, AGVs, AMRs, or heavy industrial robotic workcells.
• Strong proficiency in PLC languages such as Ladder Logic, Structured Text, or Function Block Diagrams.
• Solid understanding of EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus, or CAN bus.
• Familiarity with AGV guidance technologies (LiDAR SLAM, laser triangulation, RTK-GPS, or magnetic guidance).
• Able to work in a heavy industrial manufacturing environment with heat, dust, and outdoor conditions.

Responsibilities

• Program, configure, and optimize AGV routing, traffic control, and dispatch sequencing.
• Write and modify PLC code and HMI screens to integrate the AGV system with mill infrastructure.
• Calibrate and troubleshoot navigation systems including LiDAR SLAM and RTK-GPS.
• Configure safety systems (laser scanners, bumper zones, emergency stops) per standards.
• Integrate AGV fleet management with MES/WMS/ERP via industrial protocols.
• Conduct field-testing, path validation, and load-testing under various conditions.
• Create technical documentation and train maintenance staff.

Skills

Python

C++

PLC programming

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering/Mechatronics/Automation/Robotics/CS

Tools

Rockwell/Allen-Bradley PLC

Siemens PLC

Beckhoff PLC

HMI development

Job description

Zekelman Industries in Chicago is seeking a highly skilled Automation Engineer (AGV Specialist) to own programming, commissioning and optimization of our newly installed AGV system across indoor bays and outdoor yards. You will bridge software and hardware, ensuring 24/7 operation and high throughput in a heavy industrial environment.

Requirements include a Bachelor's in Electrical/Mechatronics/Automation or related field and 3+ years programming AGVs/AMRs or robotic workcells, plus PLC/HMI