Automation Engineer

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Automation Engineer to join our dynamic team at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Sudair, Saudi Arabia. This full-time position reports directly to the Maintenance Manager and offers an exciting opportunity to develop expertise in industrial automation systems while contributing to the efficiency, reliability, and continuous improvement of our production operations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in automation technologies, a proactive mindset, and a commitment to safety and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

The Automation Engineer will play a pivotal role in supporting the Maintenance and Engineering teams by ensuring the optimal performance of industrial automation systems and production equipment. Your responsibilities will include:

• System Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Provide expert support in diagnosing and resolving issues related to PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, servo drives, sensors, and control systems. Assist senior engineers and technicians during breakdowns to minimize downtime and restore operations promptly.
• Preventive and Corrective Maintenance: Conduct routine preventive maintenance activities for automation and control equipment to prevent failures and extend equipment lifespan. Participate in corrective maintenance efforts to address recurring issues and enhance system reliability.
• Documentation and Version Control: Assist in maintaining accurate records of PLC and HMI program backups, documentation, and version control to ensure traceability and compliance with industry standards.
• Parameter Monitoring and Optimization: Monitor and maintain critical automation-related parameters and machine settings to ensure optimal performance and adherence to production requirements.
• Communication and Network Troubleshooting: Support the resolution of communication issues between PLCs, HMIs, drives, and field devices to ensure seamless data exchange and system integration.
• Root Cause Analysis (RCA): Collaborate in identifying the root causes of recurring automation failures and participate in structured RCA processes to implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Machine Commissioning and Modifications: Assist in the commissioning, testing, and modification of new or existing machinery to ensure compliance with technical specifications and operational requirements.
• Continuous Improvement Initiatives: Contribute to automation improvement projects aimed at enhancing Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), reliability, and machine performance. Identify opportunities for innovation and efficiency gains in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Technical Documentation and Records: Maintain up-to-date records of PLC/HMI programs, electrical drawings, parameters, and technical documentation to support audits, troubleshooting, and future reference.
• Supplier and OEM Coordination: Facilitate technical interactions with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and external suppliers during troubleshooting and system upgrades to ensure alignment with best practices and manufacturer guidelines.
• Safety and Compliance: Adhere to all Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), electrical safety, and factory safety procedures to ensure a secure working environment for all personnel.
• Technical Support and Collaboration: Provide technical guidance and support to maintenance technicians, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes knowledge sharing and operational excellence.
• CMMS/EAM System Utilization: Learn and apply the factory’s Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) or Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) system to track maintenance activities, equipment history, and performance metrics.

Technical Competency Development

The Automation Engineer will have the opportunity to develop expertise in the following technical areas:

• PLC programming, troubleshooting, and maintenance
• HMI systems configuration and operation
• VFDs, servo drives, and motor control systems
• Industrial sensors, instrumentation, and measurement technologies
• Pneumatic and hydraulic control systems
• Electrical control panels and wiring standards
• Industrial communication networks (e.g., Profibus, Modbus, Ethernet/IP)
• SCADA systems for monitoring and control
• Machine safety systems and compliance with safety standards
• PLC/HMI software backup, restoration, and version control
• Basic electrical drawings, control schematics, and technical documentation
• CMMS/EAM systems for maintenance management

Preferred PLC Platforms

While expertise in specific PLC platforms is not mandatory, familiarity with the following systems will be considered an advantage:

• Siemens (S7-1200, S7-1500, TIA Portal)
• Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, Studio 5000)
• Schneider Electric (Modicon, Unity Pro)

Required Skills and Qualifications

To excel in this role, candidates must possess the following:

• A basic understanding of PLC and automation principles, including control logic and system architecture.
• Fundamental knowledge of electrical circuits, control systems, and industrial equipment operation.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical/control diagrams and schematics.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills to diagnose and resolve technical issues efficiently.
• Solid understanding of sensors, motors, VFDs, and other industrial automation components.
• Excellent computer skills, including familiarity with office software and automation programming tools.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities to collaborate with colleagues across departments.
• Willingness to work in a manufacturing environment and provide support during breakdowns or urgent situations.
• Demonstrated enthusiasm for learning and developing expertise in industrial automation and maintenance.

Behavioral Competencies

The successful candidate will exhibit the following personal attributes and professional competencies:

• Problem-Solving Mindset: A proactive approach to identifying and resolving technical challenges with creativity and efficiency.
• Continuous Learning: Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team, fostering a culture of cooperation and mutual support.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to tasks, ensuring accuracy in documentation, troubleshooting, and system maintenance.
• Safety Awareness: Strict adherence to safety protocols and a proactive stance in promoting a secure work environment.
• Accountability: Responsibility for assigned tasks and commitment to delivering high-quality results within defined timelines.
• Communication Skills: Clear and concise verbal and written communication to convey technical information effectively.
• Ability to Work Under Pressure: Composure and resilience in high-pressure situations to maintain productivity and focus.
• Proactive Approach: Initiative in identifying opportunities for improvement and taking action to implement positive changes.

First-Year Development Objectives

During the first year of employment, the Automation Engineer will progressively develop the following competencies:

• Independently troubleshoot basic PLC and HMI faults with minimal supervision.
• Perform PLC and HMI backups, maintain software records, and ensure version control compliance.
• Diagnose and resolve basic VFD and sensor-related failures to minimize downtime.
• Read, interpret, and understand electrical control drawings and schematics.
• Support machine commissioning, testing, and modification activities under guidance.
• Participate in Root Cause Analysis (RCA) for recurring automation failures to drive corrective actions.
• Gain comprehensive knowledge of the factory’s major production and packaging lines.
• Utilize the CMMS/EAM system effectively to manage maintenance activities and track equipment history.
• Develop foundational PLC and HMI programming skills to support automation projects.
• Contribute to automation improvement projects focused on reducing downtime and enhancing Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

The performance of the Automation Engineer will be evaluated based on the following KPIs:

• Response time to automation-related breakdowns and system failures.
• Timely completion of PLC/HMI backup activities and documentation updates.
• Compliance with preventive maintenance schedules and protocols.
• Reduction in the number of recurring automation and system failures through proactive interventions.
• Contribution to automation improvement projects that enhance OEE, reliability, and machine performance.
• Accuracy and completeness of technical documentation and records.
• Effectiveness in collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve operational goals.