Automation Engineer

Vesuvius North America•Huntington, WV

38d

About The Position

The Automation Engineer is responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of all automation, PLC, robotic, and material handling systems within the plant. The role provides hands-on technical leadership in PLC programming, robotics, AGV/EGV systems, and industrial automation, directly supporting maintenance reliability, reduction of unplanned downtime, and continuous improvement initiatives. This position acts as a technical authority and enabler for maintenance and production teams, supporting automation-driven productivity, data accuracy, and long-term asset reliability.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or equivalent experience.
3–5+ years’ experience in industrial automation, PLC programming, and system integration.
PLCs: Allen-Bradley, Siemens
HMI / SCADA development and troubleshooting
Motor controls, VFDs, servo drives, motion control
Robotics, AGV/EGV systems, vision systems
Electrical schematics and control panel design
CMMS usage for PMs, assets, and documentation
CAD tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD Electrical – preferred)
Strong hands-on, shop-floor orientation
High ownership for equipment reliability and safety
Structured problem-solving and analytical mindset
Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
Strong communication across maintenance, production, and engineering
Willingness to challenge existing solutions constructively
Discipline in standards, documentation, and execution

Nice To Haves

Automation / PLC certifications preferred.
Experience in a manufacturing and/or unionized environment preferred.

Responsibilities

Design, program, modify, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems (Allen-Bradley, Siemens preferred).
Develop and maintain control logic, sequencing, interlocks, alarms, and safety functions.
Ensure optimal performance and availability of: Automated production lines Robotic systems AGV / EGV and automated material handling systems
Lead advanced troubleshooting of automation-related failures to minimize downtime.
Maintain version control, backups, and change management for all automation programs.
Support or lead robot design, integration, and modification, including end-of-arm tooling and safety interfaces.
Maintain and optimize motion control, servo systems, drives, and vision systems.
Identify opportunities to replace manual processes with automation to improve safety, quality, and productivity.
Support the development and execution of Preventive Maintenance (PM) plans for automation, PLCs, robotics, and AGV/EGV systems.
Define automation-specific PM tasks, frequencies, spare parts, and technical standards in CMMS.
Actively support breakdown response and emergency troubleshooting.
Participate in and technically lead RCFA for automation-related failures.
Contribute to improvement of MTBF, MTTF, OEE, and reduction of unplanned downtime.
Support or lead automation-related CAPEX projects, including: Scope definition Technical evaluation Installation, commissioning, and validation
Support FAT/SAT activities and contractor supervision.
Identify and implement automation and Industry 4.0 opportunities aligned with Lean principles.
Standardize automation hardware, software, and design approaches across the plant.
Ensure all automation systems comply with: OSHA regulations Vesuvius Group standards Electrical and machine safety requirements
Support LTT, machine guarding, and safety PLC implementations.
Participate in audits, SCARs, and corrective actions related to automation and controls.
Design and maintain systems with safety by design principles.
Create and maintain: Electrical schematics Control narratives SOPs and technical documentation
Ensure automation assets, BOMs, spare parts, and documentation are properly maintained in CMMS.
Train and coach Maintenance Technicians, PLC Technician, and operators on automated systems.
Support cross-training to reduce single-point technical dependency.