Automation/Controls Engineer

Krohne USA - Beverly, MA

Full-time

Beverly, MA

Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing

About the position

The Automation Engineer is responsible for proposing, designing, implementing, and maintaining automation systems that enhance efficiency and meet product specifications. These systems include water-based calibration equipment for validating in-house built flow instrumentation, automated manufacturing equipment used in welding assembly and testing, and supporting logistics systems in shipping and warehousing. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of automation technologies and the ability to troubleshoot and maintain these systems effectively. Key responsibilities include maintaining and troubleshooting manufacturing automation systems, designing and developing PLC/Loop Controller systems based on project requirements, and programming and troubleshooting PLCs and Loop Controllers from various manufacturers such as Automation Direct and Allen-Bradley. The engineer will also develop and maintain Human Machine Interface (HMI) terminals for user interaction with controllers, design electrical control panels, and document control system designs while tracking modifications for future reference. The Automation Engineer will participate in performance testing, commissioning, and startup of projects, working closely with other engineers and IT personnel to ensure compliance with standards and timely delivery of designs. Additionally, the engineer will respond to and resolve end-user problems related to automation equipment, provide technical support to manufacturing and service teams, and assist with facility electrical troubleshooting in collaboration with electricians and outside vendors.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and troubleshoot manufacturing automation systems.
• Design and develop PLC/Loop Controller systems based on project requirements in a timely manner.
• Program and troubleshoot PLCs and Loop Controllers from various manufacturers (e.g., Automation Direct, Allen-Bradley).
• Develop and maintain HMI (Human Machine Interface) terminals for user interaction with controllers.
• Program equipment controllers and layout any additional controls required by machines.
• Design and layout of electrical control panels, enclosures, and controls.
• Develop and maintain databases.
• Document control system designs and track modifications for future reference.
• Participate in the performance testing, commissioning, and startup of projects.
• Work closely with other engineers and local and corporate IT to ensure designs comply with standards and are delivered correctly and in a timely manner.
• Respond to and resolve automation equipment end user problems.
• Provide technical, diagnostic, investigative and repair support to Manufacturing and Service as needed.
• Assist with facility electrical troubleshooting including interacting with electricians and outside vendors.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or Controls Engineering from a four-year college or university.
• Five plus years of related experience and/or training after completion of schooling; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Work experience with PLCs and proficiency in programming PLCs using ladder logic (LL), function block diagrams (FBD), and other applicable programming languages.
• Working knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., HART, Modbus, BACnet, Ethernet/IP).
• Knowledge of HMI design and programming.
• Strong knowledge of Networking, Microsoft Excel, Access, and programming languages.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with advanced mathematical concepts such as exponents, logarithms, and quadratic equations.
• Ability to interpret technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $100,000 - $120,000 yearly.