Automation Engineer

This role focuses on designing, developing, and implementing automation control systems for industrial processes and warehouse distribution equipment. You will work with conveyors, sortation systems, scanners, cameras, print-and-apply systems, and SCADA devices to improve reliability, performance, and uptime. You will serve as a technical expert on automation controls, lead troubleshooting and optimization efforts, and ensure all work follows established safety, documentation, and change management procedures.

• Serve as the on-site technical expert for automation control systems and mentor less experienced engineers and technicians to meet safety and technical standards.
• Design, develop, implement, and optimize control systems and software for material handling equipment and related automation.
• Program, maintain, and troubleshoot PLC and PC-based controllers, industrial networks, and associated control hardware.
• Diagnose and resolve automation issues by diving into PLC logic, analyzing errors, and performing hands-on troubleshooting.
• Maintain, configure, and support SCADA devices, scanners, cameras, and print-and-apply systems to ensure reliable operation.
• Adhere to strict documentation standards and Automation Change Management procedures for all modifications and projects.
• Partner closely with operations, engineering, and support teams to optimize material handling equipment (MHE) systems and deliver automation projects.
• Monitor MHE metrics and key performance indicators, analyze system performance, and identify emerging issues.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts both locally and remotely to quickly restore system functionality and minimize downtime.
• Conduct root cause analysis for recurring or critical failures and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Drive continuous improvement projects focused on performance optimization, reliability enhancement, and cost savings.
• Interpret, modify, and develop mechanical and electrical drawings to support design, installation, and maintenance activities.
• Coordinate complex maintenance activities using a CMMS, working with multiple stakeholders to plan and execute work efficiently.
• Communicate technical issues, project timelines, risks, and operational workarounds clearly to leadership and key stakeholders.
• Support motor controls and industrial electrical systems, including VFDs, DC drives, starters, and 480V 3-phase, 120 VAC, and 24 VDC circuits.
• Provide remote technical support and guidance to site teams to resolve automation and controls issues.
• Support and improve HMI and control network design to enhance usability, visibility, and system robustness.
• Contribute to technical training for maintenance and operations teams on conveyors, sortation systems, ASRS, and industrial robotics.

• 4-year degree or knowledge equivalent to a 4-year degree in engineering, automation, or a related technical field.
• At least 1 year of hands-on experience in automation controls or robotics, including PLC programming and troubleshooting.
• Proven ability to lead, train, and mentor less experienced automation engineers or technicians.
• Proficiency with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) to coordinate and document complex maintenance activities.
• Strong experience in troubleshooting automation systems and collaborating with multiple stakeholders.
• Advanced verbal and written English communication skills with the ability to interpret and communicate policies and technical information.
• Strong problem-solving mindset with the ability to analyze issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Adaptability and a demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement in processes and systems.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required by operational needs.
• Hands-on PLC programming and troubleshooting experience, including working with Allen-Bradley PLCs.
• Experience with HMI systems and control engineering, including diagnosing and resolving HMI-related issues.
• Knowledge of SCADA devices and their integration into industrial automation systems.
• Ability to work with scanners, cameras, and print-and-apply systems as part of an integrated automation environment.

• 2 or more years of experience in PLC programming, troubleshooting, and HMI/control network design, including work with SCADA systems and KPIs.
• Hands-on experience with motor controls, including variable frequency drives (VFDs), DC drives, starters, and industrial electrical systems (480V 3-phase, 120 VAC, 24 VDC).
• Proficiency with Allen-Bradley software tools such as RSLogix 5000, Studio, and FactoryTalk View, or similar controls software.
• Experience in controls design and systems integration for industrial and warehouse automation.
• Ability to interpret, modify, and develop mechanical and electrical drawings, including use of AutoCAD Electrical or similar tools.
• Background in service engineering or technical training, particularly with conveyors, sortation systems, automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), and industrial robotics.
• Proven record of providing remote technical support and driving automation system improvements across multiple sites or stakeholders.
• Experience with pneumatics and mechanical systems related to material handling and automation equipment.
• Familiarity with robotics and automation engineering concepts within warehouse or industrial environments.
• Experience working with metrics and KPIs to measure and improve automation system performance.

You will join a collaborative culture that values wellbeing, inclusivity, and a strong sense of belonging. Teams work together locally and globally to develop innovative solutions and continuously improve how work gets done. The environment supports professional growth through knowledge sharing, mentoring, and exposure to advanced automation technologies. You can expect a workplace that respects diverse perspectives, encourages new ideas, and is committed to creating a positive impact for colleagues and communities.

You will work in an industrial warehouse and distribution environment focused on material handling and automation systems. The role involves frequent interaction with conveyors, sortation systems, ASRS, industrial robotics, scanners, cameras, print-and-apply systems, and SCADA devices. You will regularly use PLC programming tools such as RSLogix 5000, Studio, and FactoryTalk View, as well as CMMS software and AutoCAD Electrical or similar design tools. The position requires hands-on work around industrial electrical systems, including 480V 3-phase, 120 VAC, and 24 VDC circuits, motor controls, VFDs, DC drives, starters, and pneumatic and mechanical components. Work hours may vary and can include nights, weekends, and holidays to support operational needs and minimize downtime. The environment is fast-paced and safety-focused, requiring adherence to established procedures, lockout/tagout practices, and appropriate industrial attire and personal protective equipment suitable for a warehouse and maintenance setting.

This is a Permanent position based out of Niagara Falls, NY.

The pay range for this position is $42.00 - $45.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a Permanent position based out of Niagara Falls, NY.

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 2, 2026.

This is a fully onsite position in Niagara Falls,NY.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.