Automation Engineer

Novelis Ashville Manufacturing Facility•Ashville, OH

About The Position

Novelis is one of the world leaders in aluminum recycling and rolling and a leading sustainable aluminum solutions provider. Driven by our purpose of shaping a sustainable world together, we work alongside our customers to provide innovative solutions to the aerospace, automotive, beverage packaging and specialty markets. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Novelis has approximately 13,000 employees in 32 operating facilities on 4 continents. The Novelis Ashville team is seeking a skilled and proactive Automation Engineer to support and improve automation systems in our aluminum manufacturing operations, including coating lines, slitters, and utility systems. This role focuses on enhancing process reliability, safety, and efficiency through the design, implementation, and maintenance of automation and control systems.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field.
Minimum 3 years of experience in industrial automation, preferably in aluminum or metals manufacturing.
Proficiency in PLC programming (Ex: Allen-Bradley), HMI development, and SCADA systems.
Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, OPC).
Experience with safety systems and standards (Ex- SIL, machine guarding).
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

Nice To Haves

Experience with coating line automation (temperature, tension, web handling).
Knowledge of slitter line operations and control strategies.
Exposure to utility system automation (boilers, chillers, air compressors).
Understanding of Industry 4.0 and digital transformation initiatives.
Working knowledge of purchasing, PLC systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and machine design.
Basic understanding of control and servo system capabilities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook), especially document editing.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement automation solutions for coating lines, slitting machines, and utility systems.
Integrate PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, and MES systems with existing equipment and processes.
Provide technical support for resolving automation-related issues.
Maintain and update control system documentation, including schematics and software backups.
Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to identify automation opportunities.
Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for recurring automation failures.
Manage automation projects from concept to commissioning.
Coordinate with vendors and track budgets.
Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
Support data acquisition and reporting systems for real-time monitoring.
Develop dashboards and reports for decision-making and predictive maintenance.
Evaluate automated equipment and processes; resolve equipment and training issues.
Provide leadership in production areas including people management and efficiency improvements.
Interact with vendors, customers, contractors, and employees across all levels.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Medical, dental and vision insurance
Health savings accounts – Company Funded Health Savings Account (HSA) and Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
Company-paid basic life insurance and Additional voluntary life coverage
Paid vacation and competitive personal time off
401(k) savings plan with company match
Retiree Medical Plans – medical and prescription drug coverage through Novelis sponsored Retiree Health Access
Retirement Savings Account
Employee assistance programs – available 24/7 to you and your family
Wellness and Work Life Support - career development and educational assistance