Automation Engineer

Key Activities

• Provide technical support to all areas daily across electrical, mechanical and automation disciplines.
• Configuration and programming of controllers and visualizations systems using Siemens (Simatic Manager and TIA Portal and WinCC flexible software).
• Project planning and programming of drive technology and servo drives – with emphasis on SEW Drive as well as Allen Bradley systems.
• Development, conception, design and creation of hardware / circuit diagrams.
• Automation troubleshooting following a recognisable troubleshooting process.
• Experience with bus systems and bus technology such as “Profinet” and “Profibus” with knowledge of systems such as ASI bus and CAN bus.
• Project Management and Project Coordination of site automation projects.
• Utilise AutoCad/Cad systems to maintain documentation updates, producing 2D CAD drawings of control panels, P&IDs and electrical wiring diagrams.
• Provide onsite services to assist in start-up or troubleshooting.
• Support and lead automation activities at both the Chesterfield and Bradford Production Sites.
• Develop HMI’s for operator use.
• Coordinating with cross-functional team(s) to resolve automation issues.
• Write programs for new designed automatic and semi-automatic machines and conveyor systems for Siemens and Allen Bradley hardware.
• Debug and test new or modified PLC and robotic programs on the production floor.
• Conduct comprehensive machine and system testing.
• Ensure the department operates with due regard to current legislation, company and statutory requirements.
• Ensure the safe and efficient operation of equipment throughout the site.
• Installation of production and plant equipment, commissioning, breakdown analysis and repair
• Identify areas in which engineering improvements can be made to increase safety, quality, efficiency, or reduce waste.
• Assist with the training of company apprentices and shift Engineers.
• Assist with developing operational manuals for newly designed machines and conveyor systems.
• Assist in risk assessment of newly designed machines with emphasis on machine safety.
• Help refine and develop programming standards and methods.
• Coordinate with other engineers and programmers on large systems and machines.
• Maintain and enhance the software and robotics solutions for the two sites.
• Maintain and document the appropriate software changes and updates to support equipment modifications and continuing operation.
• Work with Manufacturing/Operations to identify and troubleshoot machine control failures.
• Specify instrumentation and control hardware for equipment upgrades and future equipment lines.
• Will keep in line with new technology and advise the site accordingly.
• Running testing and diagnostics on IT systems to identify potential problem.
• Identifying and resolving malfunctions within the system.
• Developing and installing new hardware or software to update and improve the functionality of systems.
• Liaising with outside suppliers or developers to source the most effective hardware or software for the company’s needs.
• Creating schematics plans of the system.
• Building robust backups that can be accessed in the event of system failure.
• Training shift Engineers and Process Improvement Engineers to work within the systems and to resolve issues on their own.
• Liaising with operational staff to ensure that systems can Complete designed tasks to
• Lead improvement activities/projects across site, covering all equipment and facilities.

Key Measurables

• % Unplanned Downtime on focus machinery
• % Implementation of project work
• % People trained to correct operating level on focus machinery
• % People trained on problem solving
• $ saved by continuous improvement projects implemented

We are an equal opportunity employer, and we strictly prohibit and do not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.