Automation Engineer - Graduate Programme

Location:

At Sibelco, we advance life through materials.
For over 150 years, we’ve been a trusted leader in sourcing, transforming, and distributing specialty industrial minerals. Our work powers progress across industries as diverse as glass, ceramics, construction, coatings, polymers, and water purification. Beyond our materials, we’re proud of our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and empowering people from all walks of life to thrive and make a meaningful impact.

Are We the Perfect Match?

At Sibelco, we believe building a successful career is a two-way journey. We’re looking for individuals who share our values and vision, just as much as you’re seeking a company that aligns with your aspirations. Together, we can shape the future.

Job Description:

Location: Poviglio, Italy

The Global Graduate Programme – A Fast-Track to Leadership

The Sibelco Global Graduate Programme is a two-year rotational programme consisting of two one-year assignments in key operational and commercial roles. Participants gain hands-on experience with real business projects, ensuring early responsibility and exposure to strategic decision-making.

Participants receive a permanent contract from the start, ensuring long-term career prospects within Sibelco. As part of this programme, we are recruiting a Graduate Automation Engineer for a one-year assignment focused on automating logistics and production control at the San Nazzaro Cluster.

Graduates must also be open to spending their second year in a different cluster outside their initial region to gain international or regional business exposure.

Your Impact in This Role

This assignment focuses on integrating automation in material weighing, vehicle access control, and transport document issuance (DDT) through a Manufacturing Execution System (MES). Key responsibilities include:

• Analyzing existing processes to identify inefficiencies
• Researching and selecting technologies for automation and MES integration
• Developing and testing systems for weighing, access control, and DDT issuance
• Deploying MES for real-time monitoring and production traceability
• Training personnel on new automated systems and decision-making tools

What You Bring to the Table

• Degree in Mechanical, Electronic, or Automation Engineering, or a related field
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Leadership, communication, and project management skills
• Knowledge of MES, SCADA, PLCs, and industrial sensors
• Programming skills (Python, SQL, or industrial automation languages)
• Experience with ERP integration and data analysis
• Fluent English (B2) required, Italian (B2) preferred
• Driving license required
• Openness to spending the second year in a different cluster for international/regional experience

Our Selection Process

• Application Submission – CV & Cover/Motivation Letter
• First Interview – Initial screening and discussion about your background and motivations
• Assessment – Evaluating key competencies required for the role
• Business Case Study – A real-world challenge to assess problem-solving and strategic thinking
• Panel Interview – Final interview with key stakeholders

Why Join Us?

Sibelco’s Global Graduate Programme is a unique opportunity to gain early career exposure to real business challenges and decision-making. Participants benefit from:

• A permanent contract from the start – full-time role, not an internship
• Competitive salary – we recognize and reward talent
• Relocation support – receipts-based reimbursement
• Real responsibility & hands-on experience – make an impact from day one
• Structured career path – strong performers advance quickly
• Performance guidance & mentorship – continuous support throughout your assignment
• International/regional exposure – second-year assignment in a different location

Employee Type:

Why Join Us?

Sibelco is more than a workplace—it’s a community that encourages growth, innovation, and collaboration. Here’s what you can look forward to when you join our team:

• Meet Our People: Careers

• Learn About Our Recruitment Process: Learn More

• Discover Our Sustainability Goals: Sibelco priorities

We also welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to providing reasonable adjustments to support you through the selection process.

How to Apply

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter/X and Facebook to learn more about life at Sibelco. Submit your application in the Apply option.

Please note: We do not require agency services as we have a dedicated Global Talent Acquisition Team.