Automation Engineering Specialist

Reynolds Consumer Products•Louisville, KY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Automation Engineering Specialist provides technical expertise to support, optimize, and continuously improve automated manufacturing systems that enable safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations. This role serves as the primary subject matter expert for automation and control systems, partnering across Engineering, Maintenance, Production, and union craft teams to maximize equipment reliability, improve operational performance, and reduce unplanned downtime. The position influences plant performance by leading technical troubleshooting, supporting capital improvements, evaluating emerging automation technologies, and implementing sustainable process enhancements. Operating with a high degree of autonomy, the Automation Engineering Specialist analyzes complex technical challenges, recommends practical solutions, and drives continuous improvement initiatives that enhance productivity, quality, and equipment effectiveness. Through strong cross-functional collaboration and the ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable business information, this role enables informed decision-making while supporting operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and long-term manufacturing performance.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Automation, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, Industrial Maintenance, or a related technical discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience to successfully perform the essential functions of the position.
2-4 years of experience supporting industrial automation equipment, PLCs, HMIs, and control systems. (Allen Bradley, Siemens, Fanuc)
Experience troubleshooting industrial electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and control systems.
Experience supporting programmable logic controllers, human-machine interfaces, industrial robotics, and automated manufacturing equipment.
Strong knowledge of industrial automation principles and manufacturing control systems.
Demonstrated ability to diagnose and resolve complex equipment and process issues.
Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, mechanical drawings, and technical documentation.
Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and root cause problem-solving skills.
Ability to prioritize multiple assignments in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to simplify complex technical concepts for diverse audiences.
Ability to build collaborative working relationships across Engineering, Maintenance, Production, contractors, and union-represented employees.
Working knowledge of industrial safety practices, including Lockout/Tagout requirements.

Nice To Haves

Experience working within a manufacturing or industrial production environment.
Project Management
Wonderware
DCS
ABB
Lean Manufacturing Practices

Responsibilities

Maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and optimize automated manufacturing equipment and industrial control systems to maximize equipment availability and operational reliability.
Diagnose and resolve complex electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, instrumentation, and control system issues to minimize production downtime.
Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance activities that improve equipment performance and extend asset life.
Support the installation, startup, commissioning, and validation of new automation equipment, production systems, and process improvements.
Evaluate equipment performance trends and recommend improvements that increase reliability, safety, and operational efficiency.
Support the configuration, programming, testing, and optimization of programmable control systems and automated manufacturing processes.
Analyze production and equipment performance to identify opportunities for automation improvements, process optimization, and cost reduction.
Test and validate new automation technologies, control strategies, and production equipment to ensure operational effectiveness and business value.
Recommend capital improvement opportunities supported by technical and financial justification.
Partner with Engineering, Maintenance, Production, Quality, and Operations to resolve technical issues and improve manufacturing performance.
Coordinate automation-related work activities with Maintenance Supervisors, approved contractors, and union craft personnel while adhering to labor agreements and plant procedures.
Communicate complex technical information in a clear and concise manner to support informed operational and business decisions.
Serve as the plant automation subject matter expert by providing technical guidance and recommendations across multiple functional areas.
Maintain accurate documentation of maintenance activities, equipment modifications, troubleshooting efforts, and system improvements.
Interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, technical drawings, and engineering documentation to support maintenance and project execution.
Ensure all automation activities comply with company policies, applicable regulations, and established safety requirements, including Lockout/Tagout procedures.