Lead Automation, Sensing and Control Engineer

GE Vernova•Schenectady, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Automation, Sensing and Control Engineer will maintain, analyze, troubleshoot, and program complex industrial machinery/controls and IT systems for the Schenectady Cores and Castings manufacturing plant within GE VERNOVA Gas Power in Schenectady, NY. The Lead Automation, Sensing and Control Engineer specialist will be entrusted to implement global standards from the 1P1P in automation and robotics processes throughout SCC facility. They will design, develop, and implement factory automation and robotic systems to enhance safety, improve production quality, streamline manufacturing processes, and increase productivity. This role involves the entire lifecycle of an automation system, from concept and design to programming, testing, and deployment, requiring expertise in mechanical engineering, electrical systems, and computer science. The specialist will also be a focal point for new technology introductions, new process introductions, fixturing, process, control plans, and qualifications of new manufacturing assets.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university or college in: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or a related field.
Minimum of 6 years of industrial experience in designing & deploying factory automation and robotics.
Proficient in control networks including: Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet, MTConnect, OPC-UA, Modbus, ProfiNet, Profibus.
Expertise with PLCs, sensor/actuator integration, HMIs, SCADA, robotics, FMS.
Proficient in industrial communication protocols including: Fieldbus, Ethernet, Serial, and Wireless.
Proficient in plant manufacturing systems, electrical/controls technology in a production and processing environment, vision and barcode scanning, servo controllers, speed variator, and systems, and analog/digital signals.
Proficient in programming languages such as C++, Python.
Experience with Allen Bradley, Rockwell Automation, Roboguide.
Experience in electrical/controls technology in a production and processing environment.
Functional knowledge of robotics setup, application and manipulation.
Functional knowledge Electrical panel layouts.
Ability to understand, interpret, and create written technical information (i.e. Engineering drawings, electro-mechanical schematics, ladder logic, machine manuals, and standard operating procedures).
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a proven ability to work effectively in team environments.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and committed to continuous improvement.
A strong grasp of control theory, kinematics, and dynamics is expected.
Effective problem solving and analytical skills with a focus on applied automation and robotic programming, control, and hardware issues.
Demonstrated ability to analyze and resolve problems.
Ability to document, plan, market, and execute programs.
Established project management skills.
Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this role.
Must be willing to work on‑site in Niskayuna, NY.
Export Control: Because of the specific categories of data handled by GE Vernova Advanced Research and the structure of our work environment, we are unable to accommodate employment of persons while they are considered nationals of countries subject to comprehensive restrictions under the U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR), 15 CFR Section 746 et seq. (currently North Korea, Syria, Iran, and Cuba). Note: Citizens of these countries who have either “U.S. person” status under U.S. export control laws or subsequent citizenship or permanent residency from a non‑restricted country can be considered.

Nice To Haves

Experience using CAD software like NX and SolidWorks.
Experience with machine learning and AI applications in robotics.
Professional-level credentials: Certified Robotics Engineer (CRE) and Certified Automation Professional (CAP).
OEM relevant certifications in robotics and automation (e.g., FANUC, ABB, Rockwell)
Strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
Lead initiatives of moderate scope and impact.
Ability to coordinate and manage several projects simultaneously.
Effective problem identification and solution skills.
Proven analytical and organizational ability.
Deep manufacturing technical expertise.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, prototype and test innovative automated solutions and robotic systems and components.
Integrate hardware, software, and sensors (such as LiDAR, cameras, and IMUs) into automation platforms as defined by roadmap actions.
Program robots for specific tasks, including motion control, path planning, and autonomous navigation.
Integrate all forms of industrial automation devices into plc logic (e.g. motion, vision, touch, pneumatic, mechanical, electrical).
Conduct simulations and tests to validate the performance and reliability of automation systems under real-world manufacturing production conditions.
Support design reviews with internal stakeholders and integration partners to determine equipment requirements.
Ensure compliance with industry safety and regulatory standards as well as GE Vernova EHS requirements throughout the development and deployment process.
Become the technical expert on industrial equipment operation specific to controls systems on machine tools, robotics, and IT systems.
Troubleshoot and debug complex automation and robotic systems, resolving issues related to hardware, software and controls operation of equipment.
Perform as the lead point of contact with controls equipment OEM and parts vendors.
Analyze IT system/machinery controls failures for indications of assignable causes, identify and recommend corrective actions, and work with maintenance team and/or external suppliers to implement corrective action.
Perform routine systems maintenance including but not limited to: Installing patches on servers, adding new equipment to FMS, creating HMIs, managing system tags, managing access to Historian and FMS, managing access to jump boxes via Bitvise, and maintaining firewall rules.
Document and revise technical specifications, Process Maps, Electro-Mechanical Drawings, test plans, and maintenance procedures.
Assist in the integration of automation and AI into manufacturing systems as needed.
Work projects to a specific schedule and budget, providing timely communication to key stakeholders.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., EHS, Manufacturing Engineers, Design Engineering, Process Engineers, Quality, Materials, Industrialization, Operations and Sourcing) to define project requirements and ensure seamless integration.
Provide effective communication to appropriate team members when needed.
Daily interface with manufacturing, management, and product team.
Contribute to Kaizen, Lean, Built-in-Quality initiatives, Management of Change, Safety Risk Assessments and LOTO on all designed equipment.
Work effectively in a fast-paced environment while embracing and driving positive change inside and outside the organization when appropriate.
This position involves a "hands-on" approach with consistent presence on the production floor, during Gemba walks at the beginning of the shift and a daily check-in with operators, maintenance, and leaders.

Benefits

medical
dental
vision
prescription drug coverage
access to Health Coach from GE Vernova, a 24/7 nurse-based resource
access to the Employee Assistance Program, providing 24/7 confidential assessment, counseling and referral services
GE Vernova Retirement Savings Plan, a tax-advantaged 401(k) savings opportunity with company matching contributions and company retirement contributions, as well as access to Fidelity resources and financial planning consultants
tuition assistance
adoption assistance
paid parental leave
disability benefits
life insurance
12 paid holidays
permissive time off