What are the responsibilities and job description for the Automation Specialist position at Farmina?
Company Background: Farmina is nature and science in perfect harmony. Our mission is to develop the best all-natural, nutritious, and scientifically validated food that dogs and cats will love. Farmina is an innovative Pet Nutrition Company focusing on servicing dog and cat pet parents to make the best personalized nutritional decisions for their pet's well-being while providing life-changing solutions along the way.
We at Farmina firmly believe in our company motto: Happy pet. Happy you.
Position Purpose
The Automation Specialist is responsible for the development, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of automated systems within our pet food manufacturing plant. This role ensures the seamless operation of industrial automation and control systems, supporting production efficiency, quality, and reliability. The Automation Specialist will collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot issues, enhance processes, and drive continuous improvement in alignment with industry standards and best practices. This position offers the opportunity to work in a high-tech, fast-paced manufacturing environment where automation plays a critical role in optimizing efficiency, quality, and safety. If you have a passion for industrial automation and a strong technical background, we invite you to apply and join our team!
Requirements
· Minimum 5 years of experience in industrial automation, working with Siemens and Allen-Bradley platforms.
· Work on Site in Reidsville, NC Manufacturing facility
· Siemens: Advanced expertise in TIA Portal (PLC, HMI, SCADA), Sinamics, and complete Siemens architectures.
· Allen-Bradley: Strong knowledge of Studio 5000, FactoryTalk, ControlLogix, and Rockwell architectures.
· Hardware Configuration: Advanced ability to select, define, and configure industrial components (PLCs, I/O, motors, drives, HMIs).
· Profinet & Industrial Networks: Proficiency in Profinet, Ethernet/IP, network configuration, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
· Ignition SCADA: Hands-on experience with Ignition Perspective for development and integration.
· Low-Voltage Electrical Knowledge: Ability to read electrical schematics, wire, and troubleshoot 24VDC signals and I/O.
Preferred
· Industrial Cybersecurity: Basic knowledge of OT network protection.
· Motion Control: Advanced expertise in Siemens and Rockwell servo systems.
· Robotics Integration: Experience with KUKA, ABB, Fanuc, or UR is a plus.
· Programming Languages: Jython for Ignition, SCL for Siemens, advanced Ladder logic.
Key Responsibilities
· Design, develop, and maintain PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems, primarily using Siemens TIA Portal and Allen-Bradley Studio 5000.
· Configure, program, and troubleshoot Siemens Sinamics drives and Rockwell architectures.
· Select, define, and configure industrial hardware components, including PLCs, I/O modules, motors, drives, and HMIs.
· Ensure proper setup and diagnostics of Profinet, Ethernet/IP, and other industrial communication networks.
· Develop and integrate Ignition SCADA solutions, with a focus on Ignition Perspective.
· Read and interpret electrical schematics; wire and troubleshoot 24VDC control signals and I/O.
· Maintain adherence to industry standards and internal methodologies for automation development and implementation.
· Collaborate with maintenance, production, and engineering teams to ensure seamless system performance and uptime.
· Provide structured troubleshooting and fast problem resolution for automation-related issues.
· Document all system configurations, programming logic, and troubleshooting guidelines to ensure long-term maintainability.
· Support training and knowledge sharing within the team to enhance overall technical capabilities.
· Adapt to operational needs, including travel and working in complex production environments when necessary.
Benefits:
· Comprehensive Benefits Package including Medical, Dental, Vision Benefits and much more.
· 90% Company Paid Employee Only Medical Plan Option
· 401K with Employer Matching Program
· Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off
· Employee Discounts
This job description may not be inclusive of all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described, and may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of the Employer.
Farmina is An Equal Opportunity Employer