Automation Engineer

California Dairies, Inc.•Pixley, CA

16h•$95,913 - $144,526•Onsite

About The Position

Join the California Dairies, Inc. (CDI) team, a farmer-owned cooperative dedicated to sustainably producing the highest quality dairy products while fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. CDI products are delivered locally and around the world. Nestled in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, our Tipton facility manufactures a diverse range of products, including milk powder, butter, nutritional powders, and processed fluids. We encourage you to be part of our team that's shaping the future of dairy, right from the heart of California! Our commitment to CDI employees: We believe in valuing our team with a total rewards package that goes beyond the basics. You'll find we offer competitive pay and incentive programs designed to recognize and reward your contributions. Competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits, generous paid time off, sick days & holidays, retirement plans designed to secure your future. We don't stop there. We've also cultivated a variety of valuable programs focused on your personal well-being and professional growth, ensuring you have the support you need to both inside and outside of work. Job Summary The Automation Engineer II plays a critical role in ensuring the continuous operation, optimization, and reliability of our manufacturing processes. In this mid-level role, you will take ownership of automation systems, independently execute technical projects, and drive process improvements across the plant. You will act as a key technical resource, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams and mentoring junior engineering and technical staff.

Requirements

Strong proficiency in: PLC programming (AB, Siemens, or equivalent)
HMI development and field devices
VFDs, servos, motion control basics
Industrial networking (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, etc.)
Ability to read and create electrical schematics
Solid troubleshooting methodology under production pressure.
Basic computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Good verbal and written communication skills.
Must demonstrate good judgement when carrying out duties as assigned.
Demonstrates a positive attitude with strong problem-solving skills.
Minimum of 3 or more years of in depth project experience in automation, controls, manufacturing, or maintenance.
Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; a combination of education and professional experience may be considered.
English is required as the written and spoken language.
Must possess or be able to acquire a state issued Driver’s License.

Nice To Haves

Background in manufacturing or plant settings is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Independently troubleshoot and resolve complex automation problems
Design, implement, and modify PLC and HMI programs
Lead small to mid‑scale automation projects from concept to commissioning
Coordinate inter- and intradepartmental operations by collaborating closely with maintenance, production, and OEM partners.
Develop, maintain, and enforce automation standards and documentation while building a knowledge base to streamline issue resolution and support future operations.
Mentor Automation Engineer I staff and technicians
Support multiple facilities as needed
Support production teams during minor equipment issues and escalate complex problems to senior engineers.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance safety, reliability, and efficiency by evaluating automation use and identifying performance improvement opportunities.
Travel occasionally to other facilities with senior staff for training, installation, or support activities.
Support and enforce SQF / QA, GMP, Safety policies and procedures, and production needs. “Food Safety and Quality” are the responsibilities of this position.
Perform other duties as assigned.