Automation Engineer

Want to help us bring happiness to the world? Want to join an ambitious and fast growing global biscuits and confectionery business investing heavily in iconic global brands, infrastructure and people? Then this is the place for you.

As proud bakers and chocolatiers and custodians of iconic global brands, we don’t compromise on the quality of ingredients in our products or on the people we hire. We are looking for entrepreneurial spirits who share our passion for bringing happiness to our consumers and who embody our Winning Traits.

To succeed at pladis you need to be purpose-led, resilient and positive to succeed here because we expect pace and agility, we insist on collaboration and demand accountability. If that is your thing, then pladis offers global ambition, a clear Vision and roadmap for success, challenge, and unrivalled opportunities to learn and make an impact

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PURPOSE:

The Automation Engineer plays a critical role in supporting the R&D and Supply Chain teams by designing, implementing, and optimizing automated systems and processes across the facility. This role ensures that automation solutions align with operational goals, improve efficiency, and maintain compliance with safety and quality standards.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES AND DELIVERABLES:

• Design and deploy automation solutions using Rockwell Automation platforms (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, FactoryTalk, Studio 5000).

• Program and configure PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems for process control and data acquisition.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define automation requirements and deliver integrated solutions.

• Troubleshoot and resolve issues with control systems, instrumentation, and networked devices.

• Conduct feasibility studies and risk assessments for new automation initiatives.

• Develop and maintain technical documentation including schematics, logic diagrams, and system architecture.

• Support commissioning, validation, and handover of automation systems.

• Ensure compliance with industry standards (NFPA, ISA, OSHA) and internal safety protocols.

• Provide training and support for operations and maintenance teams.

• Monitor system performance and recommend improvements for reliability and throughput.

• Coordinate with vendors and contractors for equipment installation and upgrades.

• Integrate automation systems with SAP and MES platforms for data flow and reporting.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• 5 -8 years of experience in industrial automation, preferably in food, pharma, or high-volume manufacturing.

• Proficiency in Rockwell Automation platforms including:

• Studio 5000 Logix Designer

• FactoryTalk View SE/ME

• ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs

• FactoryTalk AssetCentre and Historian

• Experience with Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet, ControlNet and industrial networking.

• Strong understanding of ladder logic, structured text, and function block programming.

• Familiarity with safety PLCs and machine safeguarding standards.

• Ability to interpret electrical and mechanical drawings.

• Proficient in troubleshooting control systems and instrumentation.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Effective communication and documentation abilities.

• Experience with project lifecycle management and reporting.

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and engineering tools (AutoCAD, EPLAN, etc.).

Relationship Management

• Personable, pro-active, professional and able to demonstrate full commitment to exceptional customer care and service in all activities.

• Work as a key member of the team

• Ability to communicate and interact at all levels of the organization

• Focus on client relationships and impact on our customer service

• Handles difficult personnel situations directly, using appropriate discretion, HR advice, and respect for the individual.

• Exemplary communication skills.

• Challenge others to develop as leaders while clarifying roles and responsibilities.

• Pursue excellence in all aspects of project/routine jobs.

• Possess the expert knowledge to identify opportunities for change and the ability to convey the need for change.

• Analysis and Decision Making

• Teamwork and Leadership

• Drive for results

• Integrity and commitment

• Communicating and Influencing

• Equality, Diversity and Respect

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical/Electronics engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field or Equivalent

• 5–8 years of relevant experience

• Rockwell Automation Expertise: Deep understanding of Rockwell platforms and ability to architect, program, and maintain complex control systems.

• System Integration: Ability to integrate PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA with enterprise systems (SAP, MES).

• Process Optimization: Skilled in identifying inefficiencies and implementing automation solutions to improve productivity.

• Technical Leadership: Capable of mentoring junior engineers and leading cross-functional automation projects.

• Compliance & Safety: Knowledge of regulatory standards and ability to design systems that meet compliance requirements.

• Continuous Improvement: Commitment to lean principles and ongoing system enhancements.

• Communication & Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills to work across departments and present technical concepts clearly.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES REQUIRED:

• Customer focus: Demonstrates service-oriented attitude under all situations

• Leadership: Takes over, rally, guide and motivate people to results in a changing and ambiguous environment

• Communication: Good communication skills including listening, verbal and written. Ability to lead cross-functional meetings and union negotiations, and to drive decisions and actions

• Multi-tasks and sense of urgency: Ability to deal with multi-tasks with effective prioritization, planning and organization with required sense of urgency

• Process orientated: Recognizes importance of process compliance linked to sound understanding of all aspects of supply chain and product development process. Continuous improvement attitude

• Adaptability and Team working: Flexible, adjust readily to new situations while effectively dealing with ambiguity, stress, and uncertainty. Demonstrated smooth interpersonal relationship.

• Problem solving: Demonstrated capability for problem finding and problem solving and decision making with a win-win approach.

• Superior analytical skills and professionalism: Rigorous, precise, and reliable in data analysis and reporting as well as in respect of procedure, rules and core values

ADDITIONAL JOB DETAILS:

Base starting salary ranges from $88k - $110k/year. The base pay offered is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity. In addition to base pay, this role includes:

• An annual incentive opportunity, awarded based on individual and company performance.

• A comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and financial security

pladis is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to hiring a diverse workforce. All openings will be filled based on qualifications without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, religion or any other classification protected by law.

We operate a strict Preferred Supplier List. If you are a recruitment agency and wish to submit candidate to be considered for this vacancy, you must have agreed to, and signed, our terms of business.
We will not accept CVs from any other sources other than those currently on our PSL. We will not pay a fee for any candidate that has not been represented by a provider on our PSL.