Automation & Controls Engineer

Job Purpose:  

The Automation Engineer I is responsible for ensuring the safety, financial, and technical success of projects and work assignments related to the support, service, maintenance, and upgrading of NorthWind’s product offerings.

Job Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Write PLC, HMI, and computer programs 

• Test and validate proper function of existing systems; evaluate how the systems may be improved 

• Travel to customer sites for evaluation of systems and for commissioning of software 

• Train users and provide post project support 

• Organize, plan, and prioritize work for multiple projects and for customers in a wide variety of industries 

• Communicate with customers, vendors, and co-workers to develop best solutions that meet customer needs 

• Gather Information by observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources 

• Perform complex problem solving 

• Diagnose system issues and customer problems and devise best solutions 

• Proactively anticipate potential issues to circumvent development of problems 

• Review and obtain relevant information to diagnose problems or system needs, develop, and evaluate options and then implement solutions.  

• Proactively make timely decisions, often without the benefit of all of the information or consultation with your supervisor 


• National and international travel is 

Knowledge and Skill Requirements: 

• Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology to include applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of automation projects 

• Knowledge of pneumatic conveying, extrusion, drying, separating, and compounding, weighing, and batching, and continuous processes etc.   

• Fluent use of MS Word; Excel; PowerPoint; GroupWise; EPLAN; PromiseE, AutoCAD; RSLOGIX 5000; RSView; Microsoft Visual Basic.  

Required Qualifications: 

Bachelor of Science in accredited Engineering discipline, Electrical, Mechanical, or Mechatronics preferred

Preferred Characteristics: 

• Ability to build effective relationships that are focused on integrity and trust 

• An attitude of dedication to achieve professional success 

• A focus on serving internal and external customers with respect, understanding, and empathy 

• Ability and willingness to recognize the intrinsic value of every person 

• Drive and curiosity to explore new technology and innovation for continued growth and improvement 

Physical Abilities/Work Environment: 

Includes but is not limited to the following: 

• Climbing, kneeling, lifting  

• Occasionally exerting up to 20-50 pounds of force 

• Use of power drills and drive motor vehicles – must have a valid driver’s license  

• Potential exposure to extreme temperatures but in general, normal office conditions