Mechanical & Automation Engineer

Company Description

The Mechanical & Automation Engineer is responsible for supporting the reliability, maintenance, and automation of manufacturing equipment and facility systems. This role works closely with the Maintenance Manager, Millwrights, Electricians, and Operations team to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of plant equipment. The position combines mechanical engineering, maintenance, controls, and automation expertise to improve equipment performance, reduce downtime, and support continuous improvement initiatives throughout the facility.

Job Description

Primary Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Maintenance team to support daily maintenance operations and equipment reliability initiatives.
• Work closely with Millwrights and Electricians to troubleshoot, repair, and improve mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and automated systems.
• Partner with the Operations team to coordinate maintenance activities, minimize production disruptions, and support operational goals.
• Develop, implement, and maintain preventive and predictive maintenance programs to improve equipment reliability and reduce downtime.
• Troubleshoot and resolve automation, controls, instrumentation, and process-related issues.
• Support and maintain PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, sensors, instrumentation, and other automated control systems.
• Perform root cause analysis of equipment and process failures and implement long-term corrective actions.
• Design, recommend, and implement equipment modifications and process improvements that enhance safety, quality, productivity, and reliability.
• Assist with engineering and capital improvement projects, including equipment installations, upgrades, start-ups, and commissioning activities.
• Maintain and update electrical schematics, control drawings, technical documentation, and maintenance procedures.
• Analyze equipment performance data and identify opportunities for increased efficiency and cost reduction.
• Ensure compliance with company safety policies, environmental requirements, and applicable regulations.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and support Lean Manufacturing and reliability-centered maintenance practices.
• Provide technical training and support for maintenance and operations personnel.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Minimum 3 years of experience in maintenance, engineering, automation, or a related manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, industrial machinery, and manufacturing processes.
• Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and technical documentation.
• Experience supporting equipment installations, upgrades, and capital projects.
• Excellent communication, organization, and project management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented manufacturing environment.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in paper manufacturing, pulp processing, or other heavy industrial environments.
• PLC programming experience using Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar platforms.
• Experience with SCADA systems and industrial automation networks.
• Knowledge of reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) principles.
• Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma experience.
• Experience with PLCs, HMIs, industrial controls, instrumentation, and automation systems.
• Knowledge of electrical systems, motor controls, VFDs, and industrial networking.

Education/Certifications

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Additional Information

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

SWM International is an Equal Opportunity Employer. SWM International prohibits Discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including same sex); pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability or handicap; marital status; citizenship status; veteran status; or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.