Automation Engineer

Job Title: Automation Lead Engineer Job Description
The Automation Lead Engineer will drive automation initiatives at an onsite battery manufacturing plant in St. Joseph, MO. This role is ideal for an engineer with deep expertise in PLC programming, controls integration, and industrial networking, combined with a strong understanding of mechanical systems and automation hardware. The engineer will collaborate closely with internal teams and external vendors to identify automation opportunities, optimize manufacturing processes, and lead the specification, design, and integration of new automation systems into existing production lines.
Responsibilities

• Lead automation projects with a primary focus on PLC programming, controls architecture, and system integration for manufacturing lines.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering, Controls Engineering, and Operations teams to identify process inefficiencies and develop automation solutions.
• Work directly with suppliers and vendors to specify, design, build, and integrate new automation equipment into existing manufacturing lines.
• Conduct facility inspections and gather real-time production and equipment data to inform engineering and design decisions.
• Support procurement activities, commissioning, and troubleshooting of automation systems, controls hardware, and related equipment.
• Ensure automation systems support compliance with safety standards, environmental regulations, and plant protocols.
• Document control logic, system architecture, operating procedures, and training materials for internal engineering and operations teams.
• Stay current with emerging technologies in industrial automation, robotics, smart manufacturing, and industrial IoT, and recommend improvements based on these developments.
• Configure and optimize vision systems, including camera setup, calibration, and integration with control systems.
• Modify and create PLC logic to improve system performance, reliability, and throughput, with a focus on strong troubleshooting and optimization.
• Perform basic HMI configuration tasks, including navigating HMIs, creating pop-up boxes, and implementing error and warning messages.
• Interface with Fanuc robots to position robots, create interlocks with the main line, and troubleshoot issues that occur during operation.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 7+ years of experience in controls engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in PLC programming, with Allen-Bradley/Rockwell platforms preferred, using Studio 5000 (multiple versions) and primarily Ladder Logic with some Structured Text.
• Ability to modify and create PLC logic and apply strong troubleshooting skills aimed at system optimization.
• Experience in controls architecture and system integration for automated manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency in HMI development and configuration, including basic navigation, pop-up creation, and error/warning messaging using tools such as FactoryTalk View and Ignition.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking concepts and implementation in automation environments.
• Experience working with external vendors to develop and integrate custom automation solutions and capital equipment.
• Solid understanding of automation hardware, including sensors, actuators, drives, vision systems, and control panel design.
• Hands-on experience with industrial vision systems such as Keyence and Cognex, including camera setup and configuration.
• Foundational knowledge of robotics, specifically Fanuc robots, including positioning, creating interlocks with main production lines, and troubleshooting operational issues.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Controls, or Manufacturing Engineering, or equivalent relevant experience.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in battery manufacturing, automotive, or other high-volume production environments.
• Knowledge of SCADA and MES systems, data acquisition, and industrial IoT technologies.
• Exposure to sustainability practices and energy-efficient automation design.
• Experience with capital equipment projects, including specification, installation, and optimization.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose complex automation and controls issues.
• Ability to create clear documentation and training materials for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Comfort working cross-functionally with engineering, operations, and external partners to drive continuous improvement.

Work Environment
This role is based onsite at a battery manufacturing plant in St. Joseph, MO. The engineer will work in a high-volume industrial production environment that relies heavily on automated equipment, PLC-based control systems, vision systems, and robotics. The setting includes active manufacturing lines, machinery, and capital equipment, requiring adherence to plant safety protocols and procedures. Work is primarily performed on the production floor and in engineering areas, with regular interaction with operations staff, maintenance personnel, and external vendors. The environment emphasizes collaboration, continuous improvement, and the use of modern automation technologies to enhance efficiency and reliability.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Chicago, IL.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $55.00 - $60.00/hr.
Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Chicago,IL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Sep 22, 2026.
About Actalent


Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.


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