Automation Engineer

Valley Queen•Milbank, SD

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

This position is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems that enhance production efficiency, food safety, and product quality. The ideal candidate will have experience in industrial automation within food manufacturing environments and a strong understanding of regulatory compliance and hygienic design principles.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and/or 5+ years in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, or related field.
Technical degree and/or 10+ years of experience in automation engineering, preferably in food or beverage manufacturing.
Proficiency in PLC programming (Allen-Bradley), HMI development, and SCADA systems.
Familiarity with hygienic design standards and food-grade automation components.
Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, etc.).
Excellent troubleshooting, analytical, and communication skills.
Knowledge of safety and compliance standards such as NFPA 70E, OSHA, and GMP.
Minimum age requirement is 18.
Must possess or be able to obtain a valid and appropriate state driver’s license prior to employment.

Nice To Haves

Experience with robotics, vision systems, and automated packaging lines.
Knowledge of MES systems, and data analytics for process optimization.
Bilingual in English/Spanish.

Responsibilities

Design and execute large-scale, complex automation projects from start to finish. Project design and execution includes but is not limited to: AutoCAD panel layouts, panel build out, PLC programming, HMI screen development, alarm development with server deployment, I/O system verification, and full startup support.
Responsible for safe operation and code changes for automated systems, including those related to processes that involve hazardous chemicals, environmental and safety.
Responsible for training and support of automation technicians.
Troubleshoot automation systems including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, and robotics tailored for food processing applications.
Collaborate with production, maintenance, and quality teams to identify automation opportunities and optimize existing processes.
Ensure all automation solutions comply with food safety regulatory agencies (e.g., FDA, USDA, HACCP, FSMA) and hygienic design requirements. Understand and adhere to all GMPs.
Support commissioning and validation of new equipment and automation projects.
Maintain accurate documentation including electrical schematics, control logic, and system manuals.
Monitor system performance and implement improvements to reduce downtime and increase throughput.
Ensure 100 percent accuracy when signing out spare parts and other parts related transactions.
Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and regulatory changes affecting food automation.
In the event of power outages or plant start-ups, employees must be able to restore HMI network for the plant and ensure all PLCs are communicating in a prioritized manner. Employees must be able to utilize all PLC programs to assist all departments in start-ups.
Understand and adhere to all PSM requirements and must be a member of the emergency response team.
Always comply with all company safety policies to achieve no job-related injuries or lost time accidents.
Attend and complete required safety and quality training sessions by the assigned deadlines.