Vesuvius is seeking an Automation Engineer to be responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of all automation, PLC, robotic, and material handling systems within the plant. This hands-on role provides technical leadership in PLC programming, robotics, and AGV/EGV systems, directly supporting maintenance reliability, reducing unplanned downtime, and enabling continuous improvement. The position acts as a technical authority for maintenance and production teams, driving automation-driven productivity, data accuracy, and long-term asset reliability.

What You'll Do

Design, program, modify, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems, with preference for Allen-Bradley and Siemens.
Develop and maintain control logic, sequencing, interlocks, alarms, and safety functions.
Ensure optimal performance and availability of automated production lines, robotic systems, and AGV/EGV 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 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, and 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.

What We're Looking For

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, mechatronics, automation engineering, or equivalent experience.
3–5+ years of experience in industrial automation, PLC programming, and system integration.
Experience with PLCs: Allen-Bradley, Siemens.
Experience with HMI / SCADA development and troubleshooting.
Experience with motor controls, VFDs, servo drives, and motion control.
Experience with robotics, AGV/EGV systems, and vision systems.
Experience with electrical schematics and control panel design.
Experience with CMMS usage for PMs, assets, and documentation.
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.

Nice to Have

Automation or PLC certifications.
Experience in a manufacturing and/or unionized environment.
Experience with CAD tools such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD Electrical.

Technical Stack

PLCs: Allen-Bradley, Siemens
HMI / SCADA
Motor controls, VFDs, servo drives, motion control
Robotics, AGV/EGV systems, Vision systems
Electrical schematics and control panel design
CMMS
CAD tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD Electrical)

Team & Environment

This role reports functionally and operationally to the Maintenance Manager. You will work closely with Maintenance Technicians and PLC Technicians, Production and Engineering teams, and external integrators, OEMs, and service providers.