Senior Automation & Controls Engineer

Element Solutions Inc • Piscataway Township, NJ

1d

About The Position

MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions, a business segment of Element Solutions Inc (NYSE: ESI), is renowned worldwide for its commitment to revolutionizing the electronics industry. With a legacy spanning over a century, we have continually set new benchmarks for excellence, reliability and sustainability in electronic materials.

Wafer Level Packaging - Revolutionizing wafer fabrication processes for enhanced efficiency and performance
Circuitry Solutions - Tailored solutions to meet the dynamic demands of modern circuitry
Electronics Assembly Solutions - Innovating semiconductor, surface mount technology, and power electronics assembly for unparalleled reliability
Advanced Materials and Joining - Engineering polymer and metal joining solutions for optimally performing circuits
Film & Smart Surface Solutions - Transforming electronics with cutting-edge materials and technologies for enhanced functionality and reliability
Micromax – Elevating electronics through high-performing, specialized inks and pastes

Across diverse sectors including automotive, consumer electronics, mobile devices, telecom, data storage, infrastructure, and AI, MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions has earned the trust of manufacturers worldwide. Our comprehensive range of high-quality solutions and technical services enables the entire electronics supply chain, empowering businesses to thrive in today's competitive landscape.

We embody the 'Elements of our Culture'- our 5C's; Challenge, Commit, Collaborate, Choose, and Care. These core values are the foundation of our organization which our employees embrace in their interactions with customers, colleagues and other stakeholders, to drive financial performance and create a rewarding work environment.Who are we looking for?We are seeking a highly skilled and forward-thinking Senior Automation and Controls Engineer who is passionate about designing and delivering reliable, scalable, and data-driven manufacturing systems. The ideal candidate is a hands-on technical leader who takes ownership of complex automation projects from concept through implementation, collaborates effectively with process engineers, production, EHS, and R&D teams, and brings deep expertise across the full controls stack—from sensors and safety systems to PLC/DCS programming and data integration. You are a proactive problem solver, detail-oriented, and committed to building safe, maintainable, and high-performing systems that support continuous improvement and world-class manufacturing performance.

Requirements

• 8+ years of hands-on experience designing and commissioning PLC, DCS, and HMI systems in batch or continuous chemical or process manufacturing environments
• Proven expertise with at least one major automation platform (e.g., Rockwell ControlLogix, Siemens PCS 7, Emerson DeltaV, ABB 800xA, Honeywell Experion)
• Strong knowledge of instrumentation, process control theory, and hazardous area classifications (Class I/Div 2, ATEX)
• Experience with functional safety analysis, LOPA/SIL verification, and relevant industry standards
• Proficiency with industrial networks and communication protocols
• Experience with Industry 4.0 technologies and IIoT integration
• Working knowledge of data systems, historians, and analytics tools (OSI PI, SQL, Python)
• Programming or scripting experience in Python, C/C++, or similar languages
• Familiarity with vision systems, servo drives, and safety PLCs
• Demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary teams and managing external automation partners
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, documentation, and communication skills
• Well-developed organizational and interpersonal abilities
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Controls Engineering, or a related field (preferred)
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently

Nice To Haves

• Relevant professional certifications (e.g., TÜV Functional Safety, Rockwell, Siemens) preferred

Responsibilities

• Lead front-end engineering and detailed design for new equipment, processes, reactors, wet benches, blending, and packaging lines
• Translate PFDs and P&IDs into I/O lists, control narratives, and cause-and-effect matrices
• Specify, configure, and support PLC, DCS, HMI, and SCADA platforms and industrial networks
• Develop compliant control code, batch/sequential logic, alarm strategies, and historian interfaces
• Lead FAT/SAT, start-up, and on-site commissioning activities and troubleshoot systems to root cause
• Design and implement safety-instrumented functions and ensure compliance with applicable safety standards
• Deploy data collection, analytics, and visualization tools to monitor KPIs, improve OEE, and reduce downtime
• Prepare project timelines and manage automation workstreams on capital projects, including scope, budget, schedule, and vendors
• Promote best practices in code management, testing, documentation, and change control
• Design intuitive HMI and user interfaces that clearly communicate process status
• Stay current with emerging process control technologies and apply innovative solutions
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and external integrators to deliver successful automation projects
• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety regulations, and governmental requirements
• Travel up to 30% as needed to support projects and operations

Benefits

• Opportunities for career growth, competitive compensation (competitive base salary and performance related bonus plan) and benefits packages (health, dental, and vision insurance, Wellness Program, PTO/Holidays, as well as a 401(k)-retirement plan with a company match).
• Innovated work environment where you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative team.
• Perks and Incentives such as paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and opportunities for professional development.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level