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Principal Automation & Controls Engineer

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Schwan’s Company, a U.S. affiliate of the global lifestyle brand CJ CheilJedang Corporation, is a leader in manufacturing and marketing quality foods enjoyed nationwide. We have beloved brands like Red Baron®, Tony’s®, Big Daddy’s®, Villa Prima™ and Freschetta® pizzas; bibigo®, Pagoda® Asian-style snacks and we can’t forget Mrs. Smith’s® and Edwards® pies!We bring families and communities together through great food. Join our team and see the opportunities are real, and the sky is the limit; this isn’t just a job, it’s a seat at the table!

We are hiring a Principal Automation and Controls Engineer to support the technical and functional leadership of electrical, automation and controls systems supporting our manufacturing platforms in 17 plants around the United States. Under limited supervision, you will execute and support major automation and controls projects across the platform consistent with the strategic direction. This role serves as a key subject matter expert and resource for manufacturing and business leadership.

Responsibilities:

Lead as expert, implementation of Strategic automation and control projects.
Develops and implements medium to long-term controls, network architecture, and plant floor strategies to drive efficiency, plant floor productivity, and innovation.
Supports the team with development and execution of project scope, costs, and schedule (from concept through vertical start-up).
Ensures that projects meet operating expectations and are completed within authorized budgets and schedule constraints.
Drives technical solutions by evaluating and recommending new technologies as well as reduce/eliminate issues associated with equipment, performance, quality, and safety.
Supports the development of the long-range capital plan and manage obsolescence across GSC
Collaborate with project teams, and internal/external technical resources to assess opportunities for application of innovative designs, performance improvements, technical advantages, speed to market and capital efficiencies ensuring optimum business value is achieved during capital project activity.
Coaches and mentors Automation Engineers to build technical capability and leadership behaviors consistent with our stated goal.

Qualifications:

Bachelor of Science or master’s degree in engineering required (Electrical preferred, Mechanical, Chemical), or equivalent experience. ABET accredited program is a strong preference.
10+ years in Manufacturing and Packaging Technologies. 8+ years of engineering experience with a focus on electrical and control systems is required. Experience in plant operations and industrial environments. Experience with manufacturing food and beverage or consumer packaged goods companies is preferred.
Ability to travel roughly 50% as required (this is a remote position that can work anywhere and travels to any of our 17 food production plants).
Demonstrates project management leadership, problem-solving, decision making, troubleshooting, communications, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to teach the fundamentals of electrical automation and control systems.
Strong knowledge and understanding of the primary codes and safety requirements applicable to controls safety systems, robotics, and power distribution equipment and systems.
Knowledge of Lean Six-Sigma concepts and ability to use a CAD System is preferred.
Strong ability to utilize application, programming, and integration experience through a variety of hardware/software.
Ability to troubleshoot PLCs at the code level and troubleshoot equipment and wiring.
Strong understanding of low and medium voltage power distribution and associated equipment is preferred.

Compensation and Benefits:

The base salary range for this position is $104,625 to $174,375 annually with eligibility for a 10% annual incentive bonus that is based on organizational performance. The pay range represents the numerous factors considered in the hiring decisions including, but not limited to education, skills, work experience, certifications, geography etc. As such, starting pay for the successful candidate(s) could fall anywhere within the stated range.

Beyond base salary, we offer a competitive Total Rewards package focusing on your overall well-being. We are proud to offer a strong foundation of health benefits, retirement and financial wellbeing, time off programs, and wellbeing support programs.

The employing subsidiaries of Schwan's Company are Equal Employment Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, age, race, color, religion, gender, vet status, national origin, or other protected class.

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Average salary estimate

$139500 / YEARLY (est.)

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$104625K

$174375K

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What You Should Know About Principal Automation & Controls Engineer, Schwan's

Join Schwan’s Company as a Principal Automation & Controls Engineer and help us shape the future of food manufacturing! Based in Denver, CO, you'll be at the forefront, supporting our 17 production plants across the U.S. Your role will combine technical expertise with functional leadership, ensuring our automation and control systems are top-notch. With over a decade in manufacturing and a solid background in engineering—especially in electrical and control systems—you’ll lead strategic automation projects that drive efficiency and innovation. This is more than just a job; it's a chance to collaborate with dynamic teams, bringing fresh ideas to life and improving productivity on the plant floor. Your contributions will extend to coaching emerging engineers and enhancing technical capabilities, ensuring our organization thrives in a competitive landscape. If you’re ready to take on a pivotal role within a company known for its beloved brands like Red Baron® and Freschetta®, while making a real impact in the industry, then we want to hear from you! Embrace the opportunity to grow with us at Schwan’s Company. This is not just a career move; it’s a journey towards creating great food that brings people together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Principal Automation & Controls Engineer Role at Schwan's

What are the key responsibilities of a Principal Automation & Controls Engineer at Schwan’s Company?

As a Principal Automation & Controls Engineer at Schwan’s Company, you'll lead the implementation of strategic automation and control projects across our manufacturing plants. This role involves developing medium to long-term controls strategies that drive efficiency and innovation. You'll oversee project scope and costs, ensuring all initiatives meet operational expectations while mentoring junior engineers to build technical expertise within the team.