Automation Engineer

DrinkPAK•Santa Clarita, CA

6d•$130,000 - $150,000•Onsite

About The Position

Power your Thirst for More at DrinkPAK, where we revolutionize beverage manufacturing, driven by automation and sustainability. Together, through grit and innovation, we break new ground in record time by acquiring the most advanced technology and attracting the brightest talent. Our explosive growth and journey through uncharted territories offers unique career opportunities enabling passionate individuals to reach their full potential. To support our teams, we offer enriching lifestyle accounts, comprehensive benefits, formal development programs, and an energizing environment. Drive your success at DrinkPAK, where we refresh, hydrate and nourish the world and our employees alike. POSITION: The Automation Engineer is responsible for the performance, equipment reliability, uptime percentage, design, development, and optimization of complex automation systems, and processes to improve production efficiency, reduce manual intervention, and ensure high-quality outputs. LOCATION: The position is based at DrinkPAK's headquarters in Santa Clarita, California. TEAM: The Automation Engineer will report to the Director of Maintenance and Site Engineering. TYPE: Full Time; Salary / Exempt

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, or related technical degree
Proven experience as an Automation Engineer or in a similar role.
Strong knowledge of PLC programming languages (e.g., Ladder Logic, Structured Text).
Experience with industrial control systems (SCADA, DCS, HMI).
Ability to analyze and troubleshoot complex automation issues.
Knowledge of safety protocols and industry standards (e.g., IEC, ISO).
Knowledge of communication protocols and Ethernet/IP.
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Sophisticated troubleshooting skills with high-speed manufacturing equipment such as AC/DC motors, VFDs, PLCs, servo motors, and PLC I/O modules, HMIs, analog and digital signals.
Knowledge of liquid process systems, blending, inline instrumentation, pumps, valves, flowmeters, tanks, HTST
Knowledge of packaging equipment like, de-palletizer, palletizer, conveyors, filler, packer, pasteurizer
Exhibit knowledge in Lean, Six Sigma, or another management system
Strong interpersonal skills and team orientation; technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Ability to extract, evaluate, and utilize data for process improvement from applicable systems
Willingness to work rotating shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays
Excellent computer skills
Demonstrates adaptability by reacting appropriately to unexpected changes in situations or circumstances
Safety, continuous improvement and solutions driven mindset

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with robotics, machine vision, and sensor technologies is a plus.
Bilingual (English & Spanish) is a plus

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and implement automation solutions for production, testing, and quality control systems.
Program, configure, and maintain industrial automation systems (e.g., PLCs, SCADA, DCS, HMI).
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify automation needs and provide tailored solutions.
Troubleshoot, debug, and optimize automated processes and equipment to improve system reliability.
Perform system upgrades, installations, and regular maintenance on automation equipment.
Develop and maintain system documentation, including user manuals and technical reports.
Ensure compliance with safety regulations and industry standards in all automation systems.
Conduct testing and validation of automation systems to ensure optimal performance.
Continuously monitor system performance and propose improvements for efficiency and cost reduction.
Provide technical support and training to operational teams on automated systems.
Manage complex automation projects from initiation to completion, ensuring timely delivery within budget and scope.
Work closely with product, operations, and engineering teams to understand requirements and translate them into scalable automation solutions.
Stay up to date with advancements in automation technologies and recommend new tools or practices.