Automation Engineer
Kingspan Roofing + Waterproofing, Inc.
Full-time
Cumberland, MD
Job description
JOB SUMMARY:
The Automation & Controls Engineer supports Kingspan Roofing + Waterproofing manufacturing operations by maintaining programming and optimizing control systems and automation infrastructure. This includes PLC/HMI programming, troubleshooting machine-level controls, and collaborating on new automation initiatives. The role acts as a technical escalation point for controls and electrical issues and plays a key role in improving safety, reducing downtime, and modernizing processes.
This is a great opportunity for a motivated graduate to launch their engineering career within a supportive, technically advanced environment—with dedicated investment in Siemens PLC training and long‑term career development.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Program, troubleshoot, and maintain industrial automation systems including Siemens (PLC, HMI, VFD), ABB (VFD, Robotic), Danfoss (VFD).
- Configure and support HMI systems used in production equipment interfaces.
- Troubleshoot and modify systems involving VFDs, sensors, encoders, relays, motor starters, SCR… electrical panels (up to 480V 3-phase).
- Support and improve safety systems such as light curtains, area scanners, and interlocks to ensure compliance with OSHA and NFPA 70E standards.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, and IT teams to deliver automation and controls solutions aligned with operational priorities.
- Act as a subject matter expert and escalation point for plant controls issues and electrical downtime.
- Maintain a centralized repository of backup programs for PLCs and HMIs; document changes (COC Document) thoroughly.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives by implementing automation-based solutions that increase uptime, quality, or efficiency.
- Provide technical support for installation and commissioning of new equipment or automation upgrades, for various locations of Kingspan Roofing + Waterproofing
- Develop and maintain training materials for electrical and controls development and assist in onboarding or mentoring of junior technicians.
- Adhere to all plant safety policies and participate in safety improvement efforts related to controls and automation.
REQUIREMENTS:
· Degree that provides a strong foundation in engineering, programming, and control systems.
- Experience in automation, controls, or electrical systems within a manufacturing environment.
- Strong working knowledge of Siemens PLC Logic and Troubleshooting.
- Experience reading and modifying electrical schematics, ladder logic, and panel layouts.
· Experience with a variety of communication methods, such ProfiNet, TCP/IP, EtherNetIP.
- Familiarity with configuring or troubleshooting automation hardware such as Light curtains, Area scanners, Encoders, Sensors, Robotic, HMIs.
- Electrical troubleshooting experience up to 480V systems (AC and DC).
- Working knowledge of NFPA 70E and OSHA standards for electrical safety.
- Strong analytical, communication, and documentation skills.
PREFERRED:
- Experience with AutoCAD Electric software.
- Experience with SCADA programs to meet project requirements.
· Investigate technical problems and establish procedures and corrective actions to avoid recurrences.
· Evaluate Controls Engineering problems.
· Robotic experience – ABB.
- Familiarity with isolated networks and controls system data integrity best practices.
- Experience training others or supporting technical development programs.
- Must work well within a diverse workplace, handle challenges that arise with respect.
- Attention to detail and the ability to learn quickly.
- Excellence in communication (both verbal and written).
- Excellence in handling multiple tasks and work well under pressure; sense of both urgency and thoroughness.
- Professional, positive, and energetic attitude.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $80,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person