Automation Project Engineer

Automation Project Engineer

Mebane, NC | Full-time, onsite | $100,000–$120,000 base + discretionary annual bonus | Relocation assistance available

Our client, a growing global food manufacturer, is adding an Automation Project Engineer to its corporate engineering team as it undertakes a major, multiyear expansion in Mebane.

You’ll help bring new production capacity online, guiding automation projects from initial planning through installation, commissioning and handover. Based at the factory and reporting to an engineering manager in Europe, you’ll work with local colleagues, equipment suppliers and a global engineering team.

The opportunity

This role combines project ownership with hands-on technical problem solving. Most of your time will involve coordinating projects and suppliers, with approximately 10–20% spent investigating controls issues, reviewing code and helping resolve problems that require deeper automation expertise.

The work spans both process automation and production machinery, from ingredient handling, mixing and baking to filling and packaging. You’ll have exposure to varied equipment and technologies, a substantial project pipeline and experienced engineering colleagues in Europe and Asia.

What you’ll do

• Carry automation and electrical project scopes from planning through startup and handover.
• Define technical requirements, coordinate suppliers and manage scope, schedules and budgets.
• Integrate equipment and controls into connected production systems.
• Oversee installation, commissioning, documentation and training.
• Provide escalated technical support when plant teams or suppliers need help resolving complex issues.
• Work with engineering and IT colleagues on automation standards, industrial networks and system security.

What you’ll bring

• Approximately five or more years of relevant automation engineering experience.
• A bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with Siemens or Rockwell PLC systems.
• Experience in process automation, machine integration or both, with an interest in learning across the plant.
• The judgment, organization and communication skills to coordinate suppliers and take increasing ownership of projects.

Food manufacturing experience is welcome. Relevant experience in other consumer goods manufacturing, chemical processing, equipment manufacturing or systems integration will also be considered. You don’t need experience with every technology used onsite; a strong technical foundation and willingness to learn matter.

Work arrangement

Monday – Friday onsite in Mebane, NC.

Domestic and international travel may reach approximately 25%, although initial work will be concentrated locally. Training in Europe is anticipated. Occasional support outside normal hours and commissioning work may be required.