Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer

On July 1, 2025, IPL Plastics merged with Schoeller Allibert to form IPL Schoeller (the 'company'). The Company's operations are split across North America (11 manufacturing plants) and Europe (16 manufacturing plants). The company is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. IPL Schoeller is a leading manufacturer of sustainable rigid packaging solutions across a range of end market segments including returnable transit packaging, consumer and industrial packaging, environmental containers and agricultural packaging. The company employs c.4,100 employees across North America (1,600 employees) and Europe (2,500 employees).

As an Automation Engineer at IPL-Goodyear you will:

Play a critical role in optimizing manufacturing operations by designing, implementing, and maintaining automation solutions that enhance production efficiency, improve product quality, and reduce operational costs. Your expertise in robotics, PLC programming, sensor technologies, and smart manufacturing systems will be essential in modernizing processes and driving continuous improvement. You will collaborate with production, maintenance, quality, and R&D teams to integrate advanced automation technologies, troubleshoot system issues, and ensure compliance with industry standards. A strong analytical mindset, problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to innovation will enable you to streamline workflows and contribute to our company's success in delivering high-quality plastic products.

• Automation System Design & Implementation – Develop and integrate automated systems, including robotics, PLCs, and HMI interfaces, to enhance production efficiency and accuracy.

• Process Optimization – Analyze existing workflows and identify automation opportunities to improve cycle times, reduce downtime, and increase throughput.

• Troubleshooting & Problem-Solving – Diagnose and resolve technical issues related to automation equipment, ensuring minimal production disruptions.

• Equipment Programming & Configuration – Program, calibrate, and maintain PLCs, sensors, servo systems, and vision systems for seamless operation.

• Technology Integration – Implement smart manufacturing solutions, IoT-enabled monitoring systems, and AI-driven automation strategies to enhance process control.

• Cost Reduction Initiatives – Identify opportunities to lower production costs by reducing manual labor, optimizing energy consumption, and improving equipment efficiency.

• Compliance & Safety – Ensure all automation systems meet regulatory requirements, workplace safety guidelines, and industry best practices.

• Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams – Work closely with production, maintenance, supply chain, and engineering teams to drive innovation and operational excellence

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.

• Advanced certifications in PLC programming, robotics, industrial automation, or control systems are highly desirable.

• Knowledge of plastics processing technologies (e.g., extrusion, injection molding, thermoforming) and their automation requirements.

• Familiarity with safety standards and regulatory compliance (e.g., CE marking, ISO standards, machine safety protocols).

• 3–7 years of experience in automation engineering within a manufacturing environment, preferably in plastics packaging.

• Hands-on experience with PLC systems (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley), HMI interfaces, SCADA systems, and industrial networks.

• Proven track record in designing, implementing, and optimizing automated systems for packaging lines, including robotics and vision systems.

• Experience in troubleshooting and maintaining automated equipment to minimize downtime and improve reliability.

• Familiarity with data acquisition systems, IoT integration, and smart manufacturing technologies.

• Exposure to continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.

• Ability to work cross-functionally with engineering, maintenance, production, and quality teams.

• Experience in project management, including automation upgrades, commissioning, and vendor coordination.

• Strong documentation skills, including writing technical specifications, validation protocols, and maintenance procedures.

What you will bring to the role:

• PLC Programming & Control Skills - Intermediate
• Robotics & Motion Control Skills – Intermediate
• Electrical & Mechanical Integration Skills – Advanced
• Process Automation & Optimization Skills – Intermediate
• Trouble-Shooting & Diagnostics – Advanced
• Safety & Compliance – Advanced
• Data Acquisition & Analysis - Intermediate
• Decision-making • Proactive & Results Focused
• Resilience • Problem-solving & Openness to Change
• Working Cross-functionally • Adaptable & Solutions Focused • Drive for Results

If you have the above experience and are looking for a role where you can make a real difference, apply today to find out more!