Controls Automation Engineer

Coke Florida Careers•Tampa, FL

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC (Coke Florida) is seeking a Controls Automation Engineer to lead the strategy, design, and execution of automation initiatives across its manufacturing and distribution network. This role is responsible for the entire lifecycle of automation solutions, from concept and business case development to implementation, integration, and performance stabilization. The position aims to drive scalable, standardized automation platforms that align with network strategy, ensuring solutions deliver on safety, performance, and ROI. The Automation Engineer will collaborate cross-functionally with finance, distribution, planning, and manufacturing to influence decisions, guide multiple projects, and establish governance, best practices, and long-term automation strategies.

Requirements

Advanced proficiency in PLC programming, motion systems, and industrial controls.
Experience with Siemens, Allen Bradley, Rockwell Automation, and HMI platforms.
Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability to influence decision-making and drive change at all organizational levels.
Proven leadership in cross-functional teams and multi-site environments.
Associate degree in a technical field or equivalent experience required.
Demonstrated experience managing capital projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and vendor management.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering or Controls preferred.
Relevant certifications and experience with conveyor systems are a plus.
Willingness to travel extensively (50–70%) to support CCBF facilities.

Responsibilities

Serve as a technical leader and subject matter expert for controls engineering within CCBF.
Develop and implement control strategies for automated production and warehouse equipment, including PLC-driven systems.
Design and integrate control systems for new and existing equipment, ensuring alignment with CCBF standards.
Standardize controls logic, coding practices, and documentation across all CCBF locations.
Troubleshoot, test, and repair control systems; provide training and support to maintenance and engineering staff.
Mentor and develop plant-level controls engineers; stay current with emerging technologies and industry trends.
Collaborate with leadership to influence decisions and promote operational excellence.
Foster a culture of integrity, collaboration, and continuous improvement aligned with CCBF’s mission and values.
Own or play a major role in all controls capital projects, including project scoping, budgeting, implementation, and commissioning.
Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external vendors to ensure successful project delivery and alignment with CCBF’s strategic objectives.
Evaluate and govern safety system PLC architectures across CCBF manufacturing and warehouse sites, ensuring consistent design, reliability, and compliance.
Provide management and oversight of FactoryTalk AssetCentre across all sites, ensuring PLC program changes are properly tracked, controlled, reviewed, and approved.
Establish and enforce change management governance for PLC systems to protect equipment integrity, safety performance, and operational stability.