Sr. Automation Engineer

CBRE Group, Inc.; Pontoon Beach (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

CBRE Global Workplace Solutions (GWS) seeks a Senior Automation Engineer to lead automation initiatives for client MHE in Illinois. You will own preventive maintenance optimization, reliability improvements, and advanced troubleshooting of PLC/PC controllers and industrial networks.

You will partner with operations and maintenance leadership to implement projects, monitor performance, and ensure safety, while mentoring engineers and driving continuous improvement across facilities.

Qualifications

• Lead automation initiatives for material handling equipment (MHE).
• Proven experience with PLCs and SCADA in large facilities.
• Ability to collaborate with operations and maintenance teams.
• Strong focus on safety and reliability improvements.

Responsibilities

• Lead MHE controls optimization and project implementation.
• Provide expert support for automated material handling systems.
• Coordinate resources for commissioning, training, and performance qualifications.
• Analyze failures and implement improvements to prevent recurrence.
• Manage controls-related budget and ensure timely delivery.

Skills

Automation engineering

PLC/SCADA

Maintenance leadership

Operations support

Safety compliance

Tools

PLC/SCADA

Industrial networks

Diagnostics tools

Job description

Senior Automation Engineer

CBRE is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity.

Job Summary

At CBRE Global Workplace Solutions (GWS), Safety is our top priority! We maintain a safety‑first culture in which CBRE employees return home in the same condition in which they reported to work. We’re looking for a skilled and forward‑thinking ES Systems Sr Eng / Senior Automation Engineers (SAE) to join our growing team as we work to service one of the world’s largest online retailers.

We offer competitive pay, a robust benefits package, wellness programs, and a workplace environment that embraces diversity. Come join our global network of professionals supporting client operations across CBRE. Looking for growth and career advancement? Upon completing six months of successful service, associates may explore career advancement opportunities within the organization!

Read on to learn more!

About the Role

In this vital leadership role, the ideal candidate will proactively support operations on the customer’s technical problems related to their automated material handling equipment (MHE).

Your expertise will be utilized in the optimization and execution of the preventive maintenance process, with a focus on maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance of equipment such as conveyors, sortation systems, scanners, cameras, print and apply systems, SCADA devices and programs.

You will provide our client with expert‑level support based on the technical problems related to their MHE systems.

What You’ll Do

• Promote a safe working environment by complying with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency, and company directives related to system operations and work safety.
• Provide support with Material Handling Equipment (MHE) systems optimization and project implementation. Proactively and effectively communicate with multiple stakeholders including, but not limited to, leadership, operations and the maintenance team on technical issues and project timelines and production impacts.
• Manage the controls‑related budget for the site.
• Conduct failure analysis and incident review processes, implement process improvements and/or retraining to avoid future incidents.
• Engineer process solutions and reliability improvement from concept to network implementation.
• Coordinate technical resources to support commissioning, training, installation, and operational performance qualifications for new and existing facilities.
• Monitor upkeep of material handling equipment (MHE), control systems, including PLC/PC controllers and industrial networks such as Ethernet, ControlNet, DeviceNet, AS‑Interface, Profibus, labeling and parcel sortation system, motor control systems, servo drives, frequency drives, and electrical distribution systems.
• Assist with skill assessments of automation engineers as well as readiness audits and technical drills for sites supported.
• Cultivate positive working relationships with our Client and the Operations Maintenance team members.
• Apply advanced knowledge to seek and develop new, better methods for accomplishing both individual and department objectives.
• Showcase expertise in Controls / Automation Engineering and in-depth knowledge of other job disciplines within the organization function.
• Coach others to develop in-depth knowledge and expertise in most or all areas within the function.