Industrial Automation Engineer/Digital Transformation Specialist
About The Position
Illumination Works is looking for an Industrial Automation Engineer & Digital Transformation Specialist who will be responsible for leading automation upgrades and digital modernization initiatives within government-operated industrial and/or manufacturing facilities. This role supports national modernization strategies by upgrading legacy control systems, implementing secure digital technologies, enhancing operational transparency, improving efficiency and resilience of infrastructure, and ensuring regulatory and cybersecurity compliance. This position bridges the gap between Operational Technology (OT), the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and process improvement with strategic digital transformation leadership.
Requirements
- 3+ years of experience in manufacturing, industrial, or automation engineering roles
- Proven experience leading modernization or digital transformation projects
- PLC programming experience (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider, etc.)
- Experience with HMI/SCADA development
- Familiarity with industrial networking protocols (MQTT, OPC UA, Ethernet/IP)
- Experience with MES implementation and integration
- Knowledge of ERP systems integration
- Hands-on experience with data analysis, data visualization, and database management tools (e.g. Python, Power BI/Tableau, Excel, SQL)
- Understanding of IT/OT convergence principles
- Industrial cybersecurity fundamentals
- Knowledge of industrial modernization programs
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
- Strong communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills
- Minimum education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechatronics, Industrial, Electrical, or Automation / Control Systems Engineering or comparable academic discipline
- Must have or be willing to obtain Secret Clearance (this requires US citizenship)
- Acceptable candidates must successfully pass a drug test and background screen
Nice To Haves
- Experience working within regulated or government environments preferred
- Certifications such as Lean Six Sigma, PMP, or project management are a plus
Responsibilities
- Manage automation and digital modernization projects
- Lead implementation of government-compliant MES systems
- Integrate operational systems with government ERP and reporting platforms
- Design, program, and maintain PLC-based control systems
- Upgrade legacy systems to modern, secure platforms
- Implement and troubleshoot SCADA systems
- Standardize automation architecture across government facilities
- Support preventative and predictive maintenance systems
- Implement secure industrial network architecture (IT/OT segregation)
- Deploy Industrial IoT (IIoT) for real-time monitoring of assets and production
- Ensure compliance with government safety and regulatory standards
- Coordinate with multiple government departments
- Train staff on new systems and technologies
- Maintain proper documentation for all processes, risk assessments, and systems
Benefits
- market competitive salary
- a generous PTO package
- comprehensive medical, dental, vision and life insurance plans
- 401K
- short/long-term disability insurance
- a fun and engaging culture
- training opportunities to keep you up to speed on the latest technologies
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
