Lead Automation Engineer

PPC Partners Inc.•Wrightstown, WI

About The Position

The Lead Automation Engineer leads the design, programming, implementation, and commissioning of industrial automation systems for manufacturing and industrial processes. The role provides technical leadership across automation projects, including work involving PLCs, HMIs, control system architecture, and system integration. The engineer works with project managers, designers, engineers, field personnel, and customers to deliver reliable, efficient, and scalable automation solutions. The role also mentors engineers, supports project planning and execution, and helps ensure technical quality, safety, and adherence to industry standards. At PPC Partners, the stated values are a servant’s heart, wisdom, integrity, courage, humility, and passion. The role includes leading automation design and programming; supporting project scope, schedules, budgets, resources, risk identification, equipment selection, and deliverables; coordinating with customers and cross-functional teams; mentoring engineers and promoting continuous improvement; and identifying and addressing workplace hazards while supporting the company’s safety goals.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, or an equivalent combination of experience and education.
At least 5 years of experience in the automation field.
Positive safety attitude and personal integrity.
Ability to read and comprehend automation equipment manuals and electrical schematics.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams.
Ability to work independently or within a project team.
Ability to multitask and prioritize daily responsibilities.
Strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
Strong customer service orientation and ability to build trust with internal teams and external clients.
Ability to think conceptually and apply practical, real-world solutions.
Strong self-motivation, work ethic, and drive for career growth.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated experience leading automation projects or providing technical leadership.

Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of automation and control system solutions based on customer specifications, project requirements, and industry standards.
Develop, review, and approve functional specifications and system designs.
Develop and modify basic computer programming components.
Guide operator interface and system control design in line with project standards and best practices.
Serve as technical lead for automation projects, including scope definition, schedules, budgets, resource planning, and risk identification.
Review bid documents, specifications, and estimates for technical accuracy and feasibility.
Lead equipment and control system selection to meet performance, safety, and compliance requirements.
Ensure project deliverables are accurate, timely, and aligned with customer expectations.
Work independently and as part of cross-functional project teams.
Coordinate with project managers, designers, engineers, CAD personnel, vendors, and field teams to support project execution.
Communicate with customers about system functionality, project progress, challenges, and resolutions.
Build and maintain customer relationships through technical expertise, responsiveness, and reliable support.
Provide guidance, mentorship, and technical support to mid-level engineers.
Develop technical skills in programming, process controls, system integration, and project management.
Promote continuous improvement in engineering processes, tools, and design standards.
Stay current with automation technologies, programming platforms, control system standards, and industry trends.
Pre-plan work tasks and identify methods to eliminate hazards.
Observe habits and hazards and bring them to others’ attention.
Uphold safety as a priority and support the goal of achieving zero accidents.
Promote communication between field and office personnel about safety concerns, suggestions, improvements, and needed PPE.
Obtain safety training as expected of company personnel.