Automation Engineer

Description

Position Overview

The Automation Engineer I is the entry point to Baldor's automation engineering track. This role supports conveyor systems, PLC and SCADA infrastructure, pick-to-light platforms, and related warehouse automation systems. Success means responding reliably to faults, following SOPs, and documenting work clearly so others can use it. You are expected to try structured troubleshooting before escalating and to build a strong technical foundation through hands-on experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor conveyor control interfaces, PLCs, and SCADA dashboards during operational hours.

• Troubleshoot basic conveyor, PLC, and pick-to-light issues using runbooks and documentation.

• Escalate unresolved issues with clear notes on what was observed and what was tried.

• Document fault events with timestamps, fault codes, conditions, and resolution steps.

• Support automation projects, testing, punch list tracking, and post-go-live checks.

• Update logs, as-builts, and engineering records when directed.

• Build working knowledge of PLCs, SCADA, WCS, and SQL.

• Shadow senior engineers on complex investigations.

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Controls Engineering, or related field.

Experience: 0-3 years in automation, controls, or maintenance engineering. Co-ops, internships, and hands-on academic projects with automation systems are considered.

Core Skills:

• Basic understanding of PLC/HMI systems, control panels, and electromechanical components

• Able to read wiring diagrams, ladder logic, and basic electrical schematics

• Basic SQL skills

• Structured troubleshooting mindset

• Strong documentation habits

• Comfortable in a live warehouse environment

• Mechanically inclined

• Attention to detail

• Clear communicator

• Eager to learn

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to Allen-Bradley or Siemens PLCs

• Experience with conveyors, sorters, or goods-to-person systems

• Familiarity with SCADA systems such as Ignition

• Experience with pick-to-light hardware

• Coursework in motor controls, VFDs, or sensor integration

Work Environment & Schedule

• Active food distribution center environment, including refrigerated and ambient areas

• Monday-Friday schedule, with occasional evening or weekend support

• Rotating on-call support may be required

• PPE required in certain areas; training provided

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