Automation Specialist

Brightstar is an innovative, forward-thinking global leader in lottery that builds on our renowned expertise in delivering secure technology and producing reliable, comprehensive solutions for our customers. As a premier pure play global lottery company, our best-in-class lottery operations, retail and digital solutions, and award-winning lottery games enable our customers to achieve their goals, fulfill player needs and distribute meaningful benefits to communities. Brightstar has a well-established local presence and is a trusted partner to governments and regulators around the world, creating value by adhering to the highest standards of service, integrity, and responsibility. Brightstar has approximately 6,000 employees. For more information, please visit Leader in Lottery Solutions | Brightstar LotteryDiscover Brightstar Lottery, the global leader in lottery innovation. Safe, secure, and engaging solutions that benefit communities and meet player needs.


Overview

As an Automation Specialist, you will support Brightstar Lottery's manufacturing excellence by maintaining and optimizing automated systems within a high-security instant lottery ticket production and packaging environment. You'll play a key role in ensuring reliable, efficient, and compliant operations through strong technical expertise and continuous improvement. This role will be located onsite in Lakeland, Florida.

What You'll Do

• Install, configure, and maintain PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and industrial control systems
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues impacting automated production and packaging equipment
• Partner cross-functionally with engineering, maintenance, and production to improve system uptime and performance
• Develop and modify control logic to support new products and process enhancements
• Ensure automation systems meet safety, quality, and security standards at all times
• Document control systems, wiring diagrams, and software updates with accuracy
• Support integration of new equipment and technologies into existing production lines
• Other duties as assigned.

What You'll Bring

• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, or a related field
• 2+ years of hands-on experience in automation or controls within a manufacturing setting
• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens) and HMI development
• Experience with industrial networking, motion control systems, and safety interlocks
• Strong analytical thinking and advanced troubleshooting capabilities
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical documentation
• Willingness to work in a secure, regulated environment and pass required background checks
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English is required.

What Will Make You Stand Out

• Experience supporting high-speed packaging or manufacturing equipment
• Background working in regulated or high-security industries
• Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies and root cause analysis
• Proven ability to train and support operators and maintenance teams
• Proactive mindset with a focus on innovation and system optimization

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or walk throughout 8-hour production shifts is required
• Regularly lift 20-40 lbs; items over 50 lbs require a team lift or use of approved equipment
• Perform bending, reaching, twisting, and material handling throughout the shift
• Use hand tools and complete repetitive tasks
• Work in an environment with noise, heat, inks, paper dust, and moving equipment

Success Profile

• Leading Complexity
• Leading People
• Leading the Business
• Leading Self

#LI-MS1

At Brightstar, we consider a wide range of factors in determining compensation, including background, skills, experience, and work location. These factors can cause your compensation to vary. The estimated starting compensation range for this role is $32.00 - 36.00 per hour. The actual pay offered may be higher or lower. The Company complies with all local pay requirements and collective bargaining agreements, where applicable.

Base pay is one part of our Total Rewards program. Non-exempt roles are eligible for irregular discretionary bonuses. In addition, we offer employees a 401(k) Savings Plan with Company contributions, health, dental, and vision insurance, life, accident, and disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, wellness programs, and identity theft insurance. Note: programs are subject to eligibility requirements.

Immigration sponsorship is not available for this role.

All Brightstar employees have a role in information security. Annual training will be assigned and required as appropriate.