Automation Engineer

Job description

Automation Engineer
Greensboro, NC
$55-65/HR
Contract The Automation Engineer is responsible for driving innovation in electrical design, programming, and the digitization of automated and robotic systems. This role leads process improvements focused on safety, material utilization, and cost efficiency while developing and supporting Industrial Control Systems (ICS), PLCs, and HMIs. The position oversees manufacturing lines and machine controls, providing technical leadership and cross-functional collaboration. Strong communication skills and expertise in power systems, controls, networking, robotics, and electrical safety standards are essential for success. Automation Engineer Responsibilities:
 

• Responsible for development and innovation in electrical design, programming, and digitization of automated, robotic, and information systems within Power Controls and Information Systems (PC&IS) 
• Lead process improvements focused on material utilization, safety enhancement, and cost reduction
• Design, own, and build Industrial Control Systems (ICS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), and Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs)
• Lead manufacturing lines and oversee machine control systems
• Demonstrate strong leadership skills with experience leading teams
• Exhibit strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience (or ability to quickly develop proficiency) in power systems, computing and network technologies, machine control and instrumentation, vision systems, and robotics
• Knowledge of electrical safety regulations, standards, and industry best practices

Automation Engineer Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED
• 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment within controls and automation
• Ability to self-direct, demonstrate initiative, and apply strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience with HMI development (e.g., FactoryTalk View Studio, Wonderware) and PLC programming (e.g., ControlLogix) preferred
• Familiarity with IT/networking infrastructure and database applications
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics
• Understanding of instrumentation and measurement systems for process control
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Working knowledge of industrial environments, engineering principles, and production processes
• Experience with industrial networks and safety standards preferred
• Experience working with 480/277VAC 3-phase, 208/120VAC 3-phase systems, as well as 24VDC, 4-20mA, 0-5V, and 0-10V control circuits
• Knowledge of OSHA 1910, NFPA 70, NFPA 70E, and NFPA 79 safety standards and machine design specifications
• Ability to work within industrial control software platforms
• Experience troubleshooting and maintaining networking platforms and industrial control systems, including DeviceNet, ControlNet, Remote I/O, DH+, DH485, and EtherNet/IP
• HTML/XML, Python or Java programming, and SQL experience considered a plus