Sr Automation and Controls Engineer

Richmond, Indiana

100-125K + Bonus + Full Benefits 

Operating Environment: 24/7 Manufacturing Operation

Role Summary

The Senior Automation and Controls Engineer will provide essential plant support, troubleshooting expertise, and lead improvement projects for a high-volume manufacturing facility in Richmond, IN. This role is critical in helping the plant meet or exceed operational, environmental, and safety goals. The successful candidate will manage a broad range of industrial electrical and control system projects from inception to completion, including scope definition, engineering calculations, design, cost estimation, and documentation. This position also involves mentoring junior engineers and electricians, and providing essential training.

Key Responsibilities (Day to Day)

• Perform and review power, electrical, and control systems engineering across all project phases.

• Prepare and review technical electrical specifications for equipment, processes, and projects.

• Troubleshoot and correct operational issues within a 24/7 manufacturing setting.

• Participate in/lead Root Cause Corrective Actions to prevent issue recurrence.

• Provide on-call support for electrical and controls issues to plant operations.

• Assist in the review and implementation of corporate engineering specifications and standards.

• Manage and prioritize issues in collaboration with other departments.

• Support manufacturing operations and execute facility electrical safety initiatives.

• Coordinate, review, and manage external engineering resources and consultants.

• Maintain strong communication with management and project stakeholders regarding status, problems, and changes

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology.

• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in control systems engineering in a continuous and/or discrete manufacturing environment.

• Technical Skills:

  • Solid knowledge of Allen-Bradley PLC and HMI applications (including programming) along with communications within enterprise and control networked systems (e.g., DeviceNet/ControlNet).

  • Knowledge of DCS/SCADA systems (e.g., Honeywell C300/C200, Ignition/Wonderware general understanding).

  • Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and engineering drawings.

• Safety Expertise: Demonstrated knowledge in the application of the NFPA 70E Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace (arc flash and shock hazards).

• Project Management:

  • Proven project management skills, including the ability to manage and support multiple projects (1-3) simultaneously.

  • Demonstrated success managing projects in the $50k - $200k range.

• Soft Skills: Strong analytical, problem-solving, and collaborative skills. Demonstrated drive and initiative for improvement opportunities.

• Travel: Ability to design and execute projects within North America; requires up to 10% travel.

 Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in the engineering and implementation of 480V (Switchgear, Power Distribution Panel, Motor Control Center) and 4160V Power Distribution Systems.

• Experience with Honeywell systems (DCS).

• AutoCAD/electrical drafting experience.

• Experience in Process Control (e.g., driving improvement in water and compressed air systems).

 Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic environment, balancing approximately 50% troubleshooting/firefighting and 50% project execution/Continuous Improvement (CI). We are seeking a candidate with strong process control experience who can also provide backup support to the other Electrical Engineer. Exceptional understanding of Allen-Bradley systems and industrial networking is highly valued.