Responsible for PLC and HMI application development, system architecture concept and design, network design, instrumentation specification and selection, control panel design and acceptance testing, system commissioning and start-up for food processing and packing equipment / systems. In addition, the automation engineer is responsible for customer support and troubleshooting to include electrical and automation support. Will be responsible for sizing and specifying controls system, coordinating electrical, mechanical and process systems with equipment. Knowledge of food processing, packaging, material handling, and other process equipment / systems in compliance with state, federal and/or International codes & standards. Knowledge of RTE, bakery, protein, or dairy/beverage processes required.

The individual possesses communications skills that include the ability to verbally communicate to the Client and Project Team to drive ideas, concerns, action plans or other topics that need resolution through discussion as well as complimentary and considerable written communications are basic requirements for the position.

Problem solving, decision making skills, logical thinking, project management skills; ability to apply statistical calculations, analysis of variance, correlation techniques, sampling theory as well as algebra, linear equations, and other analytics as required.

• Design: Works with Project Managers, Project Engineers, Engineers, and designers to develop controls system, P&ID’s, and layouts to efficiently meet customer specifications; ensures designs and layouts conform to specifications, code requirements, and food safety requirements.
• Provides direction to designers and CAD operators for creation of engineering drawings.
• Develops design specifications for external suppliers including OEM’s and Sub-Contractors.
• Communicates directly with equipment vendors to obtain all necessary designs, drawings and controls information. Utilize collected data to design equipment controls.
• Prepare contract documents, calculations, observation reports, and estimates.
• Budget Control: Assists in bid process by estimating layout costs (design and material) for specified process; Seeks alternative methods that reduce cost of design; Reviews activities to ensure design stays within projected costs.
• Client Interface: Effectively responds to needs and requests of client as needed.
• Project Administration: Utilizes company software to ensure all necessary documents are in place and processed; Reviews and approves Engineering Change Notices; Develops and implements design project schedules; Schedules meetings as necessary with suppliers, owners, design teams, and permitting agencies; plans work schedules and timelines for support staff.
• External Relationships: Coordinates with outside engineering and architectural resources on all aspects of design; communicates with permitting and regulatory agencies as necessary
• Provides on-site project support to assist in accurate controls equipment installation with contractors using the project installation drawings.
• Assists in updating all record data and drawings for final project completion.

• BS Degree in Electrical or Controls Engineering preferred
• 4 – 8 years professional experience
• Minimum 4 years of progressive experience in process/manufacturing engineering environment; food and beverage preferred.
• NEC and NFPA codes
• Technical knowledge in the following: Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk View ME/SE, Logix5000 and Logix500; GE Intelligent Platforms, Invensys Software, NEC.. Familiarity with industry standards S88, S95, PackML and with IOT
• Statistical Analysis
• Technical Writing
• Skilled in relevant software; Procore, MS Office Suite, BlueBeam, Adobe, Power BI, AutoCAD and BIM / ACC
• Travel required to customer locations, OEM locations, and construction site locations

About Stellar

Stellar offers a comprehensive package which includes:

• Competitive pay based on experience
• Remote & hybrid work options for many positions
• Paid Time Off – accrue 15 days (120 hours) within first year of service
• Paid holidays
• Medical,  dental, and vision insurance options
• Tax-advantaged accounts (HSA, FSA, Dependent Care FSA)
• Company-paid life and disability insurance
• 401(k) – company match with immediate vesting

Stellar, headquartered in Jacksonville, FL, is a fully integrated firm focusing on design, construction, architecture, engineering, and mechanical services worldwide for over 30 years. Stellar combines a multitude of capabilities to create buildings and systems of exceptional long-term quality, value and efficiency. From food processing plants and healthcare facilities to refrigerated warehouses, automated production lines and beyond, we offer an integrated approach to meet all our clients’ needs.

Stellar is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any applicants for employment based on their race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, uniformed servicemember status, or any other status protected by law.