Automation Engineer

Giesecke+Devrient•Lemont, IL

28d•$83,099 - $96,360•Onsite

About The Position

The Automation Engineer designs, develops, implements, and maintains automated manufacturing systems to improve productivity, quality, safety, and operational efficiency. The role works with production, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams to optimize manufacturing processes through automation technologies, control systems, and continuous improvement initiatives. The engineer leads automation projects from concept through implementation, validation, and startup; programs and troubleshoots PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and industrial networks; and supports equipment such as robotics, conveyors, vision systems, sensors, and automated assembly equipment. The position also involves documenting systems, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance, supporting equipment upgrades and plant projects, analyzing manufacturing data, resolving process issues, and training operators and maintenance personnel. The position is based in a manufacturing plant environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and production operations. Occasional travel to suppliers, customer sites, or other facilities may be required. Availability to support production during off-shift hours, weekends, or equipment startups may be necessary. The pay range is $83,099–$96,360, and the role is eligible for an annual bonus.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field.
Experience with PLC programming, including Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi, Omron, or similar platforms.
Knowledge of HMI and/or SCADA systems.
Understanding of industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus, OPC, Profinet, or DeviceNet.
Experience troubleshooting electrical, mechanical, and control systems.
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
Excellent communication and project management abilities.

Nice To Haves

Experience with robotics programming and integration.
Knowledge of MES, ERP, and manufacturing data systems.
Experience with machine vision systems and industrial IoT technologies.
Familiarity with ISO standards or other industry-specific regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and implement automation solutions for manufacturing processes.
Identify opportunities to improve production efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance product quality.
Lead automation projects from concept through implementation, validation, and startup.
Program, configure, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and industrial networks.
Support manufacturing equipment including robotics, conveyors, vision systems, sensors, and automated assembly equipment.
Develop and maintain control narratives, wiring diagrams, operating procedures, and maintenance instructions.
Ensure compliance with safety standards, industry regulations, and company policies.
Assist with equipment upgrades, new product introductions, and plant expansion projects.
Analyze manufacturing data and implement process improvements using Industry 4.0 technologies when applicable.
Conduct root cause analysis and resolve equipment- and process-related issues.
Train operators and maintenance personnel on automated systems and equipment.
Collaborate with production and maintenance teams to support daily operations and continuous improvement activities.