Sr. Automation Engineer

Westlake Chemical; Marion (VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Westlake Chemical is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer in Marion, Virginia. In this role, you will be pivotal in driving automation strategies and executing projects that enhance safety and operational efficiency. You’ll partner with cross-functional teams and lead initiatives from conception through commissioning.

The ideal candidate has over 10 years of engineering experience with a strong background in automation and project management, proficient in PLC programming and industrial robotics. Travel of 30-40% is expected as part of this hands-on position.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 5+ years of experience in automation and capital project management.
• Hands-on knowledge of PLC/HMI programming.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation projects from concept to commissioning.
• Develop solutions to improve safety and productivity.
• Manage project scope, schedule, and stakeholder communication.

Skills

Automation Engineering

Project Leadership

PLC/HMI Programming

Troubleshooting

Communication Skills

AutoCAD

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Automation Engineering or related field

Tools

AutoCAD

FANUC

ABB

KUKA

Job description

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples' lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

We are seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to help drive automation strategy and execution across our building products manufacturing operations. In this role, you will lead automation projects from concept through commissioning, improve plant safety and performance, and partner cross-functionally with engineering, operations, IT, and manufacturing teams to implement practical, high-impact solutions. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced engineer who thrives in a hands‑on manufacturing environment and wants to make a meaningful impact across multiple sites.

What You'll Do

• Lead automation projects from concept and design through installation, commissioning, and startup.
• Develop solutions that improve safety, reliability, productivity, and operational efficiency.
• Partner with engineering, manufacturing, IT, and project teams to identify automation and AI opportunities.
• Manage scope, schedule, budget, risk, and stakeholder communication.
• Perform feasibility studies and technical assessments to support sound engineering decisions.
• Troubleshoot complex issues and provide post-implementation support.
• Provide technical guidance and training to plant teams.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• 10+ years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 5+ years of experience in automation, capital project management, engineering design, and equipment integration.
• Hands‑on knowledge of PLC/HMI programming, ladder logic, and industrial robotics such as FANUC, ABB, or KUKA.
• Strong project leadership, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
• Experience with project planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk assessment, and technical documentation.
• AutoCAD experience is a plus.

Why Join Us

This is an opportunity to take on visible, high-impact work in a hands‑on manufacturing environment. You’ll partner with cross‑functional teams, help shape automation strategy across multiple sites, and play a key role in driving meaningful operational improvement.

Work Environment & Travel

This role includes both office and plant‑floor work. Travel is expected approximately 30-40%, and candidates should be comfortable working in an industrial environment and using required PPE.

If you enjoy solving complex manufacturing challenges and leading impactful automation projects, we encourage you to apply.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.