Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer

Department: Engineering

Job Setting: In Office/Field

Job Type: Contract

Who are we?

In a world where performance is paramount and environments are unforgiving, Thermon stands as a global leader, forging the future of thermal management, power distribution, and environmental controls. We don't just build systems, we engineer resilience, empowering the planet's most critical industries to thrive.

Wherever the world depends on resilient systems, Thermon is there to ensure critical operations excel and endure.

Located in Franklin Park, IL a few minutes northwest of Chicago, Vapor Power International, LLC is an industry leader in the design and manufacturing of steam generators and thermal fluid heaters. Custom engineered-to-order, their products serve a broad range of markets from food processing to petrochemical applications. Founded in the early 1900's, Vapor Power has grown from a small supplier of heating products for the railroad industry to one of the most regarded suppliers of specialty equipment for steam generation and process heating.

What is the opportunity?

Reporting to the Engineering Supervisor, this Automation Engineer role requires a strong understanding of electrical systems and customer service skills to effectively troubleshoot and resolve issues in a timely manner. Boiler experience is a plus. Grow with us as we introduce new and pioneering products. Enjoy respect and recognition for your contributions as we continue to innovate!

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Responsible for the programming, commissioning and troubleshooting of control systems, programmable logic controllers and HMI systems in electrode and electric boilers on Allen Bradly and Siemens controllers
• Program and implement from scratch all aspects of control systems (PLC, HMI, DCS, VFD, etc.), including hardware, network, and software configurations.
• Factory and field test controls systems, system I/O, and safety interlocks.
• Understand and ensure compliance with safety regulations and quality standards. Solid working knowledge of NEC and UL508a.
• Develop standard operating procedures / user guides, and operator training plans based on developed controls scheme.
• Provide technical support for inquiries about electrical controls, wiring, and programming and process engineering via telephone, remote, and on site at the customer's premises
• Provide customer training on equipment controls and operation
• Customer visits when needed
• Assist the Electrical Engineers and Managers with various tasks as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned

This position will assist our customers in the field and will require up to 30% travel.

The above are considered essential duties and are illustrative of those job tasks, which are fundamental. Employees may be required to perform additional related duties as may be assigned by management. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience:

• At least 5 years' experience in PLC programming and commissioning.
• PLC technical certification is desired.
• Experience with electrical design and trouble shooting.
• Detailed knowledge of PLC automation software STUDIO5000, SIEMENS TIA, STEP7 and WinCC and hardware ControlLogix, CompactLogix, and S7-1200 controllers.
• In depth knowledge on network protocols like Modbus, BACnet, Ethernet IP, and Profibus.
• Ability to read all applicable drawings, including mechanical, electrical and instrumentation.
• Must have expertise and proficiency with basic office computer software (Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook, etc.)
• Boiler industry experience a plus

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong communication skills in collaborating with customers.
• Ability to work as both a member of a team and individually to accomplish organizational and customer requirements and goals.
• Must have expertise and proficiency with MS Word, Excel, Power Point, Projects, and Access, etc.
• ASME pressure vessel controls and code experience a plus
• Knowledge of PLC capabilities a plus.

Physical Demands:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
• Must be able to regularly travel to trade shows and manufacturing locations.

Work Environment:

This position must perform tasks that involve mainly office exposure, sitting behind a desk performing tasks on a computer. Most of their time, the employee will spend time in the office with low to moderate exposure to noise, heat, and cold environment, other physical requirements include walking, bending, hand dexterity, speaking, seeing, and lifting/moving up to 15 pounds. Steel toe shoes, earplugs and safety glasses are always required while on the production floor.