Senior Automation Engineer

About the role

A leading FMCG manufacturer is looking for a Senior Automation Engineer to provide technical leadership across electrical, controls and automation systems in a high-volume manufacturing environment. The role is based in Western Sydney and reports to the Engineering Manager. It involves taking ownership of site automation standards, improving equipment reliability and supporting ongoing capital projects.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the site's long-term electrical and controls architecture.
• Lead PLC, HMI/SCADA and automation troubleshooting across the plant.
• Drive improvements in equipment reliability, controls performance and plant efficiency.
• Establish and maintain electrical, instrumentation and controls standards.
• Provide technical leadership on automation upgrades and capital projects, supporting them from scope and design through to commissioning and handover.
• Work with Engineering, Maintenance and Operations to resolve complex technical issues.
• Manage controls documentation, software backups and equipment obsolescence planning.
• Coach and develop Controls Engineers, electricians and other technical personnel.
• Coordinate external contractors, suppliers and automation integrators.

Required profile

• Tertiary qualification in Electrical, Electronic, Mechatronics, Automation or Control Systems Engineering.
• At least 5 years' experience in electrical, controls or automation in manufacturing.
• Experience supporting capital projects, equipment upgrades and commissioning.
• Ability to lead complex technical investigations and implement sustainable solutions.
• Strong stakeholder management across Engineering, Maintenance and Operations.
• Experience coaching or developing technical personnel; an electrical trade background or licence is highly regarded.

Required skills

• Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting, ideally with Allen-Bradley/Rockwell.
• HMI/SCADA platforms such as FactoryTalk, Wonderware or AVEVA.
• Industrial networks, instrumentation, VFDs and controls infrastructure.