Controls & Automation Engineer

The Controls and Automation Engineer will be responsible for ensuring the reliable and safe operation of factory control systems. This role involves troubleshooting, implementing changes, driving root cause analysis, and deploying new tools through digital solutions. The engineer will identify improvements, resolve control system issues while working closely with Operations and Maintenance Teams to support PLC and ControlLogix programming, servos, VFDs, and other hardware. Additionally, the engineer will help drive and support the Digital Factory strategy and implementation for the site, including connecting to various data sources, validating data accuracy, and developing custom data models for factory improvements. The engineer will also be supporting training and skillset development of the control technician’s group.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Support: Ensure the reliable and safe operation of factory controls, diagnose and resolve control system issues, implement changes, and drive root cause analysis to prevent recurrence.

• Collaboration: Work closely with Operations and Maintenance Teams to support PLC and ControlLogix programming and manage hardware such as servos, VFDs, etc.

• Technical Expertise: Lead root cause analysis and provide technical expertise to maximize plant efficiency.

• Digital Strategy: Drive and support the Digital Factory strategy at the site.

• Continuous Improvement: Connect to various data sources, validate data accuracy, identify improvements, implement changes, and develop new tools using digital solutions to help dive factory improvements.

• Training and Development: Develop and train skills for troubleshooting, provide technical expertise, and mentor control technicians, fostering team alignment and performance.

• Innovation: Promote continuous improvement through the implementation of creative solutions and new digital tools.

• Partnership Development: Collaborate with different departments, develop strong partnerships, and support factory improvement teams.

• Documentation: Maintain electrical and control systems maintenance logs and other required documentation on equipment repairs.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Essential

• Degree in automation engineering, electrical engineering, systems engineering, or other relevant engineering fields.
• 3+ years of experience as a control/automation engineer within an FMCG environment.
• Proficiency in PLC programming including the ability to read, write, and troubleshoot ladder logic, understand function block diagrams, structured text, and sequential function charts, motor controls, VFDs, and robotics.
• Knowledgeable with Allen-Bradley automation equipment: PLCs, HMIs, sensors, safety components, drives and drive systems, and software solutions.
• Experience managing industrial networks such as Ethernet/IP, ASi, DeviceNet, etc.; and connecting VMware virtual environment and communication between PLC, HMI, switches, etc.
• Experience with process and packaging electrical hardware; strong fundamental knowledge of control and electrical system design and its application in automated industrial designs.
• Strong communication, leadership, and troubleshooting skills.

Desired

• First-hand experience with electrical, controls, and automation within Unilever or a similar FMCG environment.
• Experience with multiple PLCs brands such as Siemens, Schneider, Bernecker & Rainer (B&R), and Beckhoff
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task and coordinate several moderate-level projects simultaneously.
• Effective problem solver and communicator with the ability to interface with senior leadership with confidence and clarity.

What We Can Offer You

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Pay: The pay range for this position is $84,400 to $126,600. Unilever takes into consideration a wide range of factors that are utilized in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, qualifications and education, and other business and organizational needs.

Bonus: This position is bonus eligible.

Long-Term Incentive (LTI): This position is LTI eligible.

Benefits: Unilever employees are eligible to participate in our benefits plan. Should the employee choose to participate, they can choose from a range of benefits to include, but is not limited to, health insurance (including prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage), retirement savings benefits, life insurance and disability benefits, parental leave, sick leave, paid vacation and holidays, as well as access to numerous voluntary benefits. Any coverages for health insurance and retirement benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.

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Unilever is an organization committed to diversity and inclusion to drive our business results and create a better future every day for our diverse employees, global consumers, partners, and communities. We believe a diverse workforce allows us to match our growth ambitions and drive inclusion across the business. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal law and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. 

For more information about your Federal rights, please see Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination isopens in a new windowIllegalopens in a new window and Pay Transparency Non discrimination Provisionopens in a new window.

Employment is subject to verification of pre-screening tests, which may include drug screening, background check, credit check and DMV check.

If you are an individual with a disability in need of assistance at any time during our recruitment process, please contact us at NA.Accommodations@unilever.comopens in a new window. Please note: This email is reserved for individuals with disabilities in need of assistance and is not a means of inquiry about positions or application statuses. The Protected Veterans or Individuals with Disabilities AAP narratives are available for inspection by any employee or applicant for employment Monday through Friday during normal business hours at establishment.