Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Manufacturing Automation EngineerTrident Consulting is seeking a Manufacturing Automation Engineer for one of our clients in San Angelo, Texas.Job Title: Manufacturing Automation EngineerLocation: San Angelo, Texas (Onsite)Length of Assignment: 1 year w/ extensionType: Contract (W2)Rate: $25/hrJD: Manufacturing Automation Engineer job description focuses on system integration, SCADA, and bridging the gap between shop-floor controllers and enterprise databases.Role OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Manufacturing Automation Engineer to design, integrate, and troubleshoot plant-floor control systems. This role focuses on bridging multi-vendor PLCs with enterprise IT systems. You will design and deploy robust OPC architecture, manage bi-directional data flow into MES databases, and optimize PLC logic to ensure maximum OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).Key ResponsibilitiesOPC UA & Connectivity Configuration: Architect and configure reliable data pathways using Kepware OPC Server. Establish secure, high-performance OPC UA connections between shop-floor controllers and supervisory or enterprise systems.Database & Transaction Management: Architect and maintain bi-directional data exchanges between manufacturing machinery and corporate IT databases (e.g., MS SQL) using FactoryTalk Transaction Manager (formerly RSSql).PLC Programming & Troubleshooting: Program, modify, and troubleshoot industrial controllers, specifically Siemens PLCs (S7-1200/S7-1500 using TIA Portal) and Rockwell/Allen-Bradley PLCs (ControlLogix/CompactLogix using RSLogix 5000/Studio 5000).HMI/SCADA Development: Design and deploy operator interfaces and supervisory monitoring systems, utilizing platforms like Siemens WinCC and Rockwell FactoryTalk View.System Integration & Commissioning: Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams (MES, Operations, Quality, IT) to integrate new automated machinery. Map out tag databases, troubleshoot communication bottlenecks, and ensure data integrity across all system levels (MES).Qualifications & Technical Skills• Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, or equivalent technical discipline.• Experience: 3+ years of hands-on experience programming and commissioning industrial PLCs in a manufacturing or production environment.• Platform Expertise:Advanced proficiency with Siemens (TIA Portal, STEP 7) and Rockwell/Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000, RSLogix) platforms.Deep working knowledge of Kepware KEPServerEX configuration and OPC UA security protocols.Hands-on experience with FactoryTalk Transaction Manager and standard relational databases (SQL).Communication Protocols: Thorough understanding of industrial networking and communication protocols, including Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, and OPC UAAbout TridentTrident Consulting is a premier IT staffing firm providing high-impact workforce solutions to Fortune 500 and mid-market clients. Since 2005, we've specialized in sourcing elite technology and engineering talent for contract, direct hire, and managed services roles. Our expertise spans cloud, AI/ML, cybersecurity, and data analytics, supported by a 3M+ candidate database and a 78% fill ratio. With a highly engaged leadership team and a reputation for delivering hard-to-fill, niche talent, we help organizations build agile, high-performing teams that drive innovation and business success.Some of our recent awards include:Trailblazer Women Award 2025 by Consulate General of India in San FranciscoRanked as the #1 Women Owned Business Enterprise in the large category by ITServeReceived the TechServe Excellence awardConsistently ranked in the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in AmericaRecognized in the SF Business Times as one of the Largest Bay Area BIPOC/Minority-Owned Businesses in 2022