Vesuvius North America · 1 day ago
Automation Engineer
Illinois, United States
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
3+ years expVesuvius North America is seeking an Automation Engineer responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of all automation systems within the plant. The role involves hands-on technical leadership in PLC programming, robotics, and industrial automation to support maintenance reliability and continuous improvement initiatives.
Consumer Goods
Responsibilities
Design, program, modify, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems (Allen-Bradley, Siemens preferred)
Develop and maintain control logic, sequencing, interlocks, alarms, and safety functions
Ensure optimal performance and availability of:
Automated production lines
Robotic systems
AGV / EGV and automated material handling systems
Lead advanced troubleshooting of automation-related failures to minimize downtime
Maintain version control, backups, and change management for all automation programs
Support or lead robot design, integration, and modification, including end-of-arm tooling and safety interfaces
Maintain and optimize motion control, servo systems, drives, and vision systems
Identify opportunities to replace manual processes with automation to improve safety, quality, and productivity
Support the development and execution of Preventive Maintenance (PM) plans for automation, PLCs, robotics, and AGV/EGV systems
Define automation-specific PM tasks, frequencies, spare parts, and technical standards in CMMS
Actively support breakdown response and emergency troubleshooting
Participate in and technically lead RCFA for automation-related failures
Contribute to improvement of MTBF, MTTF, OEE, and reduction of unplanned downtime
Support or lead automation-related CAPEX projects, including:
Scope definition
Technical evaluation
Installation, commissioning, and validation
Support FAT/SAT activities and contractor supervision
Identify and implement automation and Industry 4.0 opportunities aligned with Lean principles
Standardize automation hardware, software, and design approaches across the plant
Ensure all automation systems comply with:
OSHA regulations
Vesuvius Group standards
Electrical and machine safety requirements
Support LTT, machine guarding, and safety PLC implementations
Participate in audits, SCARs, and corrective actions related to automation and controls
Design and maintain systems with safety by design principles
Create and maintain:
Electrical schematics
Control narratives
SOPs and technical documentation
Ensure automation assets, BOMs, spare parts, and documentation are properly maintained in CMMS
Train and coach Maintenance Technicians, PLC Technician, and operators on automated systems
Support cross-training to reduce single-point technical dependency
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or equivalent experience
3–5+ years' experience in industrial automation, PLC programming, and system integration
Strong hands-on, shop-floor orientation
High ownership for equipment reliability and safety
Structured problem-solving and analytical mindset
Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
Strong communication across maintenance, production, and engineering
Willingness to challenge existing solutions constructively
Discipline in standards, documentation, and execution
Preferred
Automation / PLC certifications
Experience in a manufacturing and/or unionized environment
PLCs: Allen-Bradley, Siemens
CAD tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD Electrical)
Company
Vesuvius North America
Leading the world of molten metal flow engineering and technology, serving process industries operating in challenging high-temperature conditions.
10001+ employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Julia W.
HR Business Partner
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