Automation & Controls Engineer

Zina's Salads, Inc.

Automation & Controls Engineer

South Plainfield, NJ
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    Benefits:

    401(k)

    401(k) matching

    Employee discounts

    Free food & snacks

    Paid time off

    About Us:

    We are a rapidly growing food manufacturer specializing in ready-to-eat meals, salads, and side dishes. As we continue to expand into a new facility, we are seeking a PLC & Automation Engineer to enhance our production capabilities through advanced automation and control systems. This full-time position is for the first shift, starting at 7:30 AM and ending around 5:00 PM. Our ideal candidate is someone with proven hands-on experience diagnosing, adjusting, and modifying PLCs and implementing automation elements. This individual must have the ability to lead the physical installation, configuration, and commissioning of automation systems while ensuring the seamless integration of mechanical, electrical, and control components.

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Diagnose, modify, and adjust PLC systems, including Allen Bradley and Siemens, using ladder logic and structured text.
    • Lead the installation and commissioning of automated systems and machinery, ensuring all components—PLC, VFDs, HMIs, servo motors, sensors—are correctly integrated and fully functional.
    • Troubleshoot complex automation, electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems to minimize production downtime.
    • Perform hands-on adjustments to PLCs and other control systems to optimize production efficiency, reliability, and quality.
    • Collaborate with the engineering and production teams to implement automation solutions, such as robotic arms or automated conveyors, that improve workflow.
    • Conduct preventive maintenance and perform real-time troubleshooting on control systems and automation elements.
    • Work closely on-site to ensure compliance with safety standards during installation and operation.
    • Provide technical support and training to production teams on operating and maintaining automated systems.

    Required Knowledge & Skills:

    • Demonstrated hands-on experience in diagnosing, adjusting, and modifying PLC systems (Allen Bradley and Siemens).
    • Strong knowledge of automation equipment installation and commissioning, including sensors, actuators, and control systems.
    • Proficiency in programming and troubleshooting PLCs, VFDs, servo motors, and HMIs.
    • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and process flow diagrams.
    • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical and automation issues on-site.
    • Familiarity with pneumatic and hydraulic systems and their automation integration.

    Other Requirements:

    • Must be able to lift 50 lbs, work in hot or cold environments, stand for extended periods, and work on ladders or in tight spaces.
    • Valid driver’s license required.
    • Spanish language proficiency is a plus.