Automation Engineer – Deckorators (Buffalo, NY)

Overview

Lead automation and digital integration for extrusion and polymer manufacturing

Key Responsibilities

• automation projects
• ai solutions
• industry 4.0
• mes development
• scada integration
• plc programming

Tasks

-Lead or support automation projects involving extrusion line instrumentation and automated material handling systems. -Partner with process and quality engineers to develop and deploy AI-driven and machine learning solutions for quality improvement and process optimization. -Support troubleshooting, upgrades, and optimization of existing automation systems to minimize downtime and improve OEE. -Design, implement, and support Industry 4.0 initiatives, including data acquisition and system integration. -Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure automation systems meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets. -Develop, test, and deploy Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Digital Quality Systems (QMS), and other digital tools to enhance visibility and control on the production floor. -Provide technical guidance and training to maintenance and operations personnel. -Manage all project phases: Needs Definition, Design/Build, and Installation/Startup, ensuring proper documentation and hand-off. -Integrate process equipment with plant-wide systems to enable real-time performance tracking and predictive maintenance. -Stay current on emerging technologies and recommend future automation opportunities to maintain plant competitiveness. -Design, develop, document, program, debug, and maintain automation PLC/HMI/SCADA/MES software.

Requirements

• vfds
• plc programming
• hmi/scada
• ignition
• python
• bachelor’s

What You Bring

-Knowledge of VFDs, servos, and common system interfaces (CIP, Fieldbus). -Strong electrical and mechanical troubleshooting skills. -Highly organized with demonstrated project management capability and attention to detail. -Experience deploying MES or plant-level integration platforms such as Ignition; ERP interfacing preferred. -Strong understanding of manufacturing data systems, sensors, and connectivity (OPC, SQL, Ethernet/IP). -5–10 years of experience in automation, controls engineering, or process optimization within manufacturing; extrusion or polymer experience preferred. -Proficiency in managing multiple automation projects from concept through commissioning. -5–10 years of control system programming experience across multiple platforms (Allen-Bradley, Red Lion, Siemens, Schneider). -5–10 years of HMI/SCADA design experience (Ignition Perspective, FactoryTalk View, Crimson). -Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. -Ability to validate and condition PLC/MES data to support process analysis and improvement. -Limited travel to other Deckorators facilities may be required (up to 20%). -Working knowledge of Python, Java, or other programming languages a strong plus. -Proven ability to design, program, and troubleshoot Rockwell FactoryTalk View ME & SE systems and Allen-Bradley PLCs (MicroLogix, CompactLogix, ControlLogix). -Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, Controls, or Computer Engineering (or related field). -Knowledge of common industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, ControlNet).

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Benefits

-401(k) plan with company match -Opportunity to help shape automation standards and digital transformation strategy for the Surestone platform across the organization. -Wellness programs and challenges -Medical insurance -Basic and voluntary life insurance -Paid vacation and holidays -Stock purchase program with employee discount -Dental insurance -Vision insurance -Health savings account with company contribution -Disability insurance -Educational reimbursement

About Ufp Industries

-It serves builders, manufacturers, and big-box retailers with products ranging from engineered lumber to custom packaging systems. -By operating as North America’s largest softwood converter and global pressure-treat leader, it gains scale and sourcing advantages. -It delivers for residential, commercial, industrial, and packaging customers through hundreds of facilities across several continents. -Notable projects include custom truss systems, composite decking brands, and ISTA-certified packaging labs.

Sector Specialisms