Company:
At Kem Krest, we are more than a supply chain solutions provider—we are a trusted partner to some of the world’s leading automotive, heavy-duty, and powersports OEMs. As a certified minority-owned business, we deliver customized services in packaging, logistics, and compliance with a focus on innovation, quality, and customer success.
With a global network, high-touch service, and a relentless commitment to quality, Kem Krest is the go-to partner for companies seeking to streamline operations, reduce costs, and accelerate growth. Join us and be part of a team that’s passionate about making supply chains smarter, and partnerships stronger.
Opportunity:
Kem Krest is seeking an Automation & Manufacturing Engineer to support and enhance manufacturing systems, production equipment, and assembly processes within our Pleasant Prairie operation. This role will serve as the technical owner of PLC-controlled work cells and manufacturing systems, ensuring reliable production, effective troubleshooting, data collection, quality verification, and continuous improvement across the operation.
The ideal candidate is a highly hands-on engineer who enjoys diagnosing complex manufacturing problems, improving equipment reliability, standardizing controls architecture, and working directly with operations teams on the production floor. This individual will help modernize manufacturing systems, improve PLC code structure and documentation, support new product launches, and drive future automation initiatives as the business grows.
This position is full-time onsite, 1st shift, in Pleasant Prairie, WI.
Responsibilities:
- Support and improve PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment and assembly systems.
- Troubleshoot, modify, and maintain Allen Bradley PLCs, HMIs, and related controls.
- Integrate and support vision systems, sensors, torque tools, leak testers, and data collection systems.
- Partner with operations, engineering, and customers to develop effective manufacturing solutions.
- Design and improve assembly processes, tooling, fixtures, and work cells.
- Develop process controls that support quality, traceability, and manufacturing efficiency.
- Support the design, implementation, and validation of manufacturing equipment and automation solutions.
- Troubleshoot production and equipment issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions.
- Drive continuous improvement efforts focused on safety, quality, productivity, and waste reduction.
- Support new product launches, process development, and facility expansion initiatives.
- Lead or contribute to cross-functional engineering and manufacturing projects.
- Support future automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing initiatives.
Your Contributions:
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical discipline preferred.
- Experience in manufacturing, automation, industrial engineering, assembly operations, or a related engineering environment.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, process development, equipment integration, and continuous improvement methodologies.
Demonstrated experience with PLC platforms and RSLogix/Studio 5000 programming and troubleshooting
Experience integrating PLCs with vision systems, sensors, HMIs, torque tools, leak testers, and other manufacturing technologies
- Ability to interpret customer requirements, define process needs, and develop practical manufacturing solutions that meet quality and operational objectives.
- Experience troubleshooting production equipment, process issues, and manufacturing systems in a fast-paced environment.
- Working knowledge of lean manufacturing principles, root cause problem solving, workflow analysis, and process optimization.
- Effective communication and project management skills with the ability to collaborate across engineering, operations, suppliers, and customers.
- Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement certifications are preferred.
Why Kem Krest?
- Competitive Salary
- Annual Bonus Program
- Immediate Health Benefits
- Free On-site Clinics & Prescriptions
- 401K Match
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Generous PTO & Holiday
- Parental Leave
- Supplier Discounts