Automation Engineer

WENGER CORPORATION•San Antonio, TX

5d•Onsite

About The Position

At Wenger Corporation our work is driven by M.U.S.I.C. [Motivation, Unity, Success, Innovation, and Customer Commitment] and united by purpose! Across our family of brands, we are motivated by purposeful work that brings performances to life. And above all, we’re committed to our customers and to each other, knowing that great performances only happen when great people work together. Join our family of brands where motivation fuels meaningful work, innovation shapes the future of performance, and customer commitment guides everything we do. At Texas Scenic Company, we design, build, and deliver world-class theatrical stage systems with an unmatched commitment to quality, service, and collaboration. Join a team where craftsmanship meets creativity at a company that values innovation, expertise, and teamwork. As an Automation Engineer, you will contribute to Wenger Corporation’s strategy to provide exceptional customer experience by designing, developing, and testing automated machinery and systems, specifically tailored for theatre installations. Your role will involve understanding the unique requirements of theatre productions, creating automation solutions to meet these needs, and ensuring their effective operation. This includes programming and calibrating systems, troubleshooting issues, and providing technical support for theatre staff. You will also be expected to stay updated with the latest advancements in automation technology and apply this knowledge to improve and innovate within our theatre systems. Your goal will be to enhance overall efficiency, safety, and theatrical experience through the effective use of automation.

Requirements

Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
Minimum of three (3) years of experience in automation controls, preferably in a theatre or live event setting.
Proficiency in maintaining, testing, troubleshooting, and repairing automation equipment.
Solid understanding of computer programming and software development, with proficiency in automation control software and related programming languages.
Experience in managing automation projects from conception to completion.
Evidence of continuous learning and skill improvement in the field of automation controls, such as participation in professional development courses.
Willingness to travel up to 60% of the year for on-site system installations and troubleshooting.
Comfortable working at heights, as theatre automation often involves rigging systems located above the stage.
Proficiency in automation control software and programming languages, including PLC programming, VB.Net, C/C++, and Python.
Familiarity with embedded hardware design.
Strong leadership skills with the ability to work effectively as part of a team; experience in leading projects is a plus.
Excellent manual dexterity for handling intricate components of automation systems.
Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures in theatre and industrial environments.
Ability to lift 50lbs or more.

Nice To Haves

Relevant industry certifications in automation control systems are a plus.

Responsibilities

Explore and implement innovative ways to automate theatrical rigging systems and enhance control system functionality.
Design, develop, and test theatrical automation equipment, embedded control systems, and related hardware to meet production and operational requirements.
Program and calibrate automated components for precise control during performances, including writing and maintaining embedded software in C/C++, PLC programming, and desktop applications in VB.Net.
Develop and maintain automation control software, troubleshoot bugs, and implement new features for both embedded systems and desktop applications.
Design and update control panels, wiring diagrams (AutoCAD), and connection schedules (Excel) for high-power control cabinets.
Prototype and develop embedded hardware and circuit designs, including microprocessor selection for new products.
Identify quality control issues, conduct root cause analysis, and provide detailed written reports with proposed solutions.
Troubleshoot and repair automation equipment, prototypes, and production units that fail testing.
Collaborate with automation manufacturers, suppliers, theatre staff, and internal teams to ensure smooth operation of all systems.
Provide technical support and training to theatre staff and shop personnel to ensure safe and effective use of automation systems.
Stay updated with the latest advancements in automation, control systems, and software development, applying this knowledge to innovate and improve theatre systems.