Company Overview
Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases is a leading provider of cryogenic pumps, heat exchangers, process systems, turboexpanders, services, and solutions for the liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied hydrogen (LH2), and industrial gases industries. Applications include fueling stations, marine engines, peak shaving, power generation, virtual pipelines, carbon capture, geothermal power and well stimulation. We are a subsidiary of Nikkiso Company Ltd, a leading industrial manufacturer headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, with $1.5 B USD in annual revenue, 8000 + employees worldwide, and publicly traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Job Overview
The Automation Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining automated systems and processes to enhance operational efficiency and productivity. Work with hardware, software, and control systems to automate repetitive tasks, optimize workflows, and improve system performance. The role often involves programming, troubleshooting, and refining automation solutions to meet specific business or technical needs. Automation Engineers typically collaborate with other engineering teams, such as Commissioning, Manufacturing and Project.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities
Design and Development of PLC/HMI Programs
- Develop PLC programs to automate machinery and processes in manufacturing, production, or control environments.
- Create and configure ladder logic and other PLC programming languages (e.g., structured text, function block diagrams).
- Design and implement HMI (Human Machine Interface) systems for operator interaction and visualization of processes.
- Design and integrate control systems with sensors, actuators, and motors for system
automation.
System Integration and Testing
- Integrate PLC systems with other industrial equipment and control systems (e.g., SCADA, DCS, VFDs).
- Conduct system testing and troubleshooting to ensure proper functionality of PLC-controlled systems.
- Perform commissioning and validation of new automated systems.
- Ensure that PLC systems are properly calibrated and performing as required in the production environment.
Optimization and Process Improvement
- Continuously evaluate and improve automation processes for increased efficiency, reliability, and productivity.
- Analyze data from automated systems to identify bottlenecks, downtime, or
underperformance, and implement corrective actions.
- Work with cross-functional teams (e.g., process engineers, maintenance staff) to optimize system designs and processes.
Documentation and Compliance
- Document PLC programs and control system designs, ensuring that all relevant details are clearly recorded.
- Create and maintain technical manuals, operation manuals, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Collaboration and Communication
- Collaborate with other engineering teams (e.g., electrical engineers, mechanical engineers) to implement integrated solutions.
- Work closely with operators and other staff to train and guide them in using PLC-controlled systems safely and effectively.
- Provide technical support to maintenance teams and operators during normal production as well as in emergencies.
Work Environment
This job is operated in a professional office environment and shopfloor/manufacturing environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as laptop computers, photocopiers, and smartphones.
Qualifications
Education, Experience and Skills:
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Technology, or a related field.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in Industrial automation Field
- Proficiency in Siemens Automation System, Must have hand on Experience in Siemens automation systems like TIA Portal, WinCC Explorer, HMI, different drive configurations and their interfaces.
- Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
- Excellent communication and coordination skills, with experience working in a cross-functional, global environment.
- Detail-oriented, analytical, and able to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines.
Preferred Skills
- Expertise in PLC/SCADA programming (Siemens, Allen Bradley, etc.)
- Strong understanding of electrical control systems, including sensor integration, motor control, and field devices.
- Familiarity with HMI/SCADA systems, as well as communication protocols like Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP, etc.
- Proficiency in troubleshooting and diagnostics of PLC and automation systems.
- Experience with VFDs and DCS is a plus.
- Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
