Automation Engineer

Job DescriptionJob Description

Automation Engineer

MBC Companies, a manufacturer and distributor of frozen food is currently seeking a Automation Engineer. Under the direct supervision of the Chief Operating Officer, to lead the design, development, implementation, and support of automation systems and controls within our food manufacturing facilities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in electrical and control systems engineering, PLC programming, and industrial automation, particularly within regulated environments such as food, beverage, or pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, install, and maintain automated equipment and control systems for production and packaging lines.
• Develop and troubleshoot PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Rockwell).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including production, maintenance, QA, and R&D to identify automation needs and improve manufacturing processes.
• Lead and support automation-related capital projects from concept through commissioning.
• Implement process control strategies to increase efficiency, reduce downtime, and ensure consistent product quality.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, occupational safety, and environmental regulations in all automation-related activities.
• Analyze and resolve recurring control system issues and provide root cause analysis.
• Maintain and update electrical and control system documentation, schematics, and drawings.
• Train operators and maintenance staff on automation equipment and procedures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, or a related field.
• 5 years of experience in industrial automation, preferably in the food or beverage manufacturing industry.
• Multi-Site leadership experience
• Strong knowledge of PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.), HMI development, and industrial networks.
• Familiarity with safety systems, sensors, actuators, and instrumentation.
• Experience with vision systems, robotics, and motion control.
• Excellent troubleshooting, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Strong communication, coaching and project management abilities.
• Comfortable with frequent travel and ability to work on-site in a manufacturing environment, including off-shift support when needed.
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean or Six Sigma.
• High-speed, highly-regulated, food manufacturing experience, including GMP, HACCP, USDA, FDA compliance.
• Familiarity with regulatory standards such as FSMA, SQF, BRC, and GFSI.
• Experience integrating MES and ERP systems with plant-floor automation.
• Bilingual skills (e.g., English/Spanish) are a plus for supporting diverse teams across locations.

MBC companies offers competitive wages, comprehensive benefit package and a great work environment. MBC companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer.