Field Service Engineer

Job Description

Field Service Engineer - Automated Packaging & Custom Machinery

100% Remote | 80-90% Travel | Two Openings Nationwide

Are you the kind of person who would rather troubleshoot a machine on-site than sit behind a desk all day? Do you enjoy working hands-on with automation, controls, mechanical systems, and customers in fast-paced manufacturing environments?

We're partnering with a growing integrator of highly customized automated packaging and process machinery serving the life sciences, food, and cosmetics industries. With equipment installed across North America and internationally, this team is looking for two Field Service Engineers who thrive in the field, enjoy travel, and want to be part of a close-knit technical organization where your work truly matters.

This is a fully remote position with travel Monday through Friday to customer facilities. Candidates can live anywhere in the U.S. as long as they are near a major airport, though Midwest and East Coast locations are preferred due to client concentration.

If you enjoy variety, autonomy, customer interaction, and solving complex technical challenges - this is the role for you.

What You'll Be Doing

As a Field Service Engineer, you'll be the technical expert customers rely on to keep highly automated machinery running at peak performance.

Responsibilities Include:

• Install, commission, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair custom automated packaging equipment
• Diagnose mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and controls-related issues in the field
• Perform PLC uploads, resets, replacements, and basic controls troubleshooting
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and pneumatic diagrams
• Fine-tune machinery performance and optimize operational efficiency
• Train customer personnel on equipment operation and preventive maintenance
• Complete detailed service documentation and communicate findings to engineering teams
• Build strong relationships with customers while serving as the primary on-site technical resource
• Travel extensively throughout the U.S. with occasional international travel for training and support

What We're Looking For

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in automation, packaging machinery, manufacturing equipment, or industrial service environments
• Strong mechanical aptitude with working knowledge of electrical systems and controls
• Basic PLC/HMI troubleshooting experience
• Experience working with automated machinery, packaging systems, conveyors, robotics, or custom equipment
• Ability to work independently in the field and manage multiple assignments
• Comfortable traveling extensively and working directly with customers
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and remote troubleshooting tools
• Valid driver's license and passport required

Preferred Backgrounds:

• Mechatronics
• Automation technology
• Industrial maintenance
• Packaging machinery
• Military technical experience / veterans strongly encouraged to apply

Compensation & Perks

• $42-$48/hour base pay
• Average earnings well over $100K annually with overtime and travel
• Time-and-a-half after 40 hours
• Double time on Sundays
• Typical schedule includes 10-hour days in the field
• Estimated 25-50% annual overtime opportunity
• $600/month vehicle allowance
• $75/day meal per diem while traveling
• Company credit card
• Company cell phone
• Paid travel expenses
• International training opportunities in Germany and Thailand
• Fully remote when not traveling

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Work on highly customized, advanced automated machinery
• Join a smaller, tight-knit U.S. team where your impact is visible
• Gain exposure to cutting-edge equipment across multiple industries
• Strong autonomy and independence in the field
• Excellent earning potential without being tied to a traditional office
• Veteran-friendly leadership and culture

If you're looking for a role where every week is different, your technical skills are valued, and you enjoy being out in the field solving real-world automation challenges - we'd love to connect.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Meet Your Recruiter

Ric Delgado
Lead Technical Recruiter

Ric Delgado is a seasoned Principal Recruiter primarily focusing on the Automation Division at Sterling. With a distinguished tenure of over five years at Sterling and an impressive career spanning more than a decade in the recruiting field, Ric is a respected and accomplished professional in talent acquisition.

As a Principal Recruiter, Ric draws upon his extensive experience to excel in the Automation Division. His in-depth understanding of this dynamic industry enables him to connect talented individuals with exciting and fulfilling job opportunities expertly. Ric plays a pivotal role in helping candidates find new positions, advance in their careers, and achieve their professional goals.

Ric's passion for positively impacting individuals' lives through career advancement is the driving force behind his dedication to recruitment. He takes immense pride in his role as a professional growth and development facilitator, understanding the pivotal role a career change can play in a person's life journey.

He firmly believes in continuously updating one's skills and knowledge to stay competitive in any field. His commitment to personal and professional development not only enhances his own expertise but also positions him as a valuable resource for candidates seeking guidance in their career journeys.

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Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

As one of the most respected names in engineering staffing, Sterling has hundreds of opportunities with top employers. If you've got a friend or colleague seeking their next move in engineering, we could have their next opportunity. We offer a referral bonus for every referral that we place. Submit referral now.