Senior Automation Engineer

Kansas Electric, Inc; Newton (KS); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

A leading provider of automation solutions is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer in Newton, KS. You will be responsible for designing and implementing automation control systems including PLC, HMI, and SCADA. The ideal candidate has at least 7 years of experience in the field, strong problem-solving skills, and a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering or similar. This role offers competitive salary and benefits, alongside opportunities for professional development and project involvement in industrial and commercial sectors.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in automation engineering and controls design.
• Proficiency in automation control systems programming and troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of relevant codes and standards (NFPA 70, UL 508A).

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automation control systems.
• Collaborate with project teams to deliver projects on time.
• Provide advanced technical support and mentorship.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI programming

SCADA systems

Allen-Bradley

Siemens

Schneider Electric

Strong problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Experience with industrial networks

Commissioning and field startup

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

RSLogix

FactoryTalk View

Ignition

AutoCAD

Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Automation Engineer to join our team in Newton, KS.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automation control systems including PLC, HMI, and SCADA solutions.
• Program and troubleshoot automation hardware and software, including Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Scheider Electric, or equivalent platforms.
• Support the design and process automation systems.
• Collaborate with project teams to deliver custom automation solutions on time and within budget.
• Provide advanced technical support and mentorship to automation technicians.
• Develop system documentation including control logic, schematics, and operation manuals.
• Ensure compliance with applicable standards (NFPA, NEC, UL 508A, OSHA, etc.).
• Participate in system commissioning, testing, and field service as required.
• Develop bid strategies and review proposals for accuracy, completeness, and competitiveness along with partnering with project managers across both automation and electrical divisions.
• Maintain strong vendor and subcontractor relationships to support competitive pricing.
• Oversight and technical guidance of UL508A panel shop (design, build, install, etc.).
• Continually transform automation department processes, procedures and best practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Controls, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 7+ years of experience in automation engineering, controls design, and programming.
• Proficiency in PLC, HMI and SCADA systems programming and troubleshooting (Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider Electric, or similar).
• RSLogix, FactoryTalk View, Ignition, etc.
• CompactLogix, ControlLogix, MicroLogix, SLC, Modicon, etc.
• Experience with industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus, etc.).
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Commissioning and field startup.
• Knowledge of relevant codes and standards (NFPA 70, UL 508A).
• Industry experience in agricultural, food and beverage and industrial markets.

Preferred Skills & Attributes

• Proficiency with the automation & controls software as well as estimating software (McCormick preferred); and other construction software tools like Bluebeam, etc.
• Strong understanding of NEC (National Electrical Code), construction sequencing, and industry best practices.
• Automation and controls experience with a focus on commercial and industrial construction.
• Subject matter expert/lead experience in leading a team of technical professionals.
• Experience with design-build or design-assist projects.
• Familiarity with industrial and commercial electrical installations/projects.
• Strong business acumen and ability to evaluate risk and profitability.
• Knowledge of local labor markets, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Rockwell Automation badges.
• Industrial networking - EtherNet/IP, Modbus, DeviceNet, Profibus, etc.
• Template and standards creation (AutoCAD, PLC Programming, Ignition, etc.).

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary. Robust employee benefits package (health, dental, vision, etc.). 401(k) with company match. Paid time off and holidays. Professional development and leadership growth opportunities.

Join our team and contribute to the success of complex, high-impact automation and controls projects. Your contributions will help shape our competitive advantage in the industrial and commercial sectors.