Senior Automation Engineer

Serac; Carol Stream (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Serac seeks an Automation Engineer to lead automation project development across discrete manufacturing environments, from concept to industrialization, focusing on Allen Bradley-based control and motion systems, and emerging technologies like e beam and laser applications.

You will oversee all project phases, guide hardware/software integration, and mentor teams to ensure cohesive solutions, with testing, documentation, and knowledge transfer at customer sites.

Qualifications

• Expertise in PLC/motion control and software development.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation project development by guiding hardware selection, directing hardware/mechatronic integration, and developing all required software to meet specifications.
• Plan, organize, and manage projects including budgets, timelines, supplier coordination, benchmarks, documentation, and compliance with development guidelines.
• Perform advanced technical analyses such as functional and risk analysis, evaluation of new technologies, and implementation of Industry 4.0, data-driven systems, and machine intelligence/AI concepts. Support, mentor, and direct engineering teams (internal and external) in troubleshooting, technical decision-making, and achieving cohesive hardware–software integration.
• Execute testing, validation, and knowledge transfer, including prototype field trials at customer sites, creation of technical documentation, and training personnel on new automation functionalities. Performs other duties as assigned

Skills

PLC/motion control

Allen Bradley

Automation Studio

Structured text

C++/.NET

Safety standards

ISO 13849

IEC 60204

NFPA 79

SISTEMA

Rockwell Safety

PLM systems

SmarTeam

QAD

Packaging machinery

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering

Tools

Rockwell Safety Automation Builder

Job description

REPORTS TO:

Electrical & Automation Engineering Manager

Job Summary

The Automation Engineer leads the development and execution of automation projects in a discrete manufacturing environment, supporting systems ranging from individual functions and modules to complete machines and integrated production lines. This role oversees all project phases—from research and concept development through industrialization, with a focus on advanced automation, Allen Bradley-based control and motion systems, and the integration of emerging technologies such as e beam and laser applications.

Essential Functions

Lead automation project development by guiding hardware selection, directing hardware/mechatronic integration, and developing all required software to meet specifications.

Plan, organize, and manage projects including budgets, timelines, supplier coordination, benchmarks, documentation, and compliance with development guidelines.

Perform advanced technical analyses such as functional and risk analysis, evaluation of new technologies, and implementation of Industry 4.0, data-driven systems, and machine intelligence/AI concepts. Support, mentor, and direct engineering teams (internal and external) in troubleshooting, technical decision-making, and achieving cohesive hardware–software integration.

Execute testing, validation, and knowledge transfer, including prototype field trials at customer sites, creation of technical documentation, and training personnel on new automation functionalities. Performs other duties as assigned

Required Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

Expertise in PLC/motion control and software development, including Allen Bradley Automation Studio, structured text programming, and familiarity with C++/.NET. Strong knowledge of safety and electrical standards, including ISO 13849, IEC 60204, NFPA 79, and use of tools such as SISTEMA and Rockwell Safety Automation Builder.

Proficiency with engineering and enterprise systems, such as SmarTeam or similar PLM platforms and QAD. Demonstrated ability to work independently or lead multi-disciplinary teams, with strong organization, attention to detail, and packaging machinery experience. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to perform risk assessments, conduct safety circuit reviews, and document complex technical concepts clearly.

Education And Experience

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or equivalent to 7-10 years of relevant automation/control systems experience. Extensive experience troubleshooting industrial control systems, including Allen Bradley controllers, PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, VFDs, process instrumentation, and 480VAC equipment. Prior hands‑on work with Allen‑Bradley and Siemens PLCs, industrial networks, and automation instrumentation.

Must have a significant background on Rockwell from scratch programming. Siemens is a bonus. Proven experience supporting or leading automation projects in industrial or packaging machinery environments. Demonstrated ability to diagnose complex technical issues and deliver high‑level engineering solutions in fast‑paced manufacturing settings.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Work is performed largely in an office or climate‑controlled warehouse environment. Some hours will be spent at various remote locations. Hours of work are generally during regular business. There will be some variation in work hours due to employee shift schedules, special projects, deadlines, customer needs and various other business concerns. Out of town and overnight travel, both local and international, may be required for business and education, by air and/or auto.

Must be able to lift and carry up to 35 pounds, as well as the ability to bend, kneel, walk or sit for extended periods of time. The ability to reach above head and below knees is also required. This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by the employee assigned to this position. It does not state or imply that these are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to the job. The employee may be required to perform other job‑related duties as requested. All requirements and duties are subject to change over time.