Automation Engineer

At Lhoist North America, our core values of Respect, Courage, and Integrity are more than words. We respect people, encourage courageous innovation, and uphold integrity in everything we do. If these principles resonate with you, you may find your next great opportunity with us.

We believe our people make the difference. That’s why we invest in talent by offering meaningful opportunities to grow your skills, expand your knowledge, and pursue your interests. Our work environment prioritizes safety, fosters collaboration across teams, and embraces inclusion. Here, you’ll be challenged to grow, and you’ll be supported throughout your career journey. Join us and help shape the future of Lhoist North America.

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position will support the Ste Genevieve Plant directly using existing automation systems and provide technical support as required by the plant. This role will be the liaison between the site management, division and corporate automation teams. Automation technologies will be used to facilitate data-driven decisions leading to improved production efficiency, safety & quality.

RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS:

1. Standards and specifications for hardware and software

• •Work with engineers, maintenance, quality and operations to design and implement improvements in Controls and Automation equipment.
• •Support and lead automation upgrades and implement division/corporate process control strategies and standards.
• •Assist in coordination and oversight, completion, and implementation of plant Automation projects.
• •Support design, program, specify, purchase and oversee installation of electrical systems in the plant.
• •Program and document Automated equipment including control loops, State Machines, and Sequencers.
• •Support maintenance and programming of our control systems and HMIs

2. Optimization of process rate, efficiency, and waste to achieve or exceed budgeted goals and objectives

• •Collaboration with the production team (manager, supervisors and employees) to optimize control logic and resolve process/control failures and faults
• •Development, implementation and monitoring of the “man-machine” interface to achieve repeatable “best” outcomes

3. Procurement process

• •Create scope of documents for projects assigned in accordance with guidelines developed by the operating team.
• •Promote cooperative efforts between all functions related to capital projects
• •Work closely with Capital Programs team as necessary.

4. Maintain and improve the existing controls and equipment.

• •Calibration of field devices: weigh belts; gas analyzers; thermocouples; pressure and flow transmitters; etc.
• •Optimization-Tuning of control loops
• •Maintaining accurate, accessible records of calibrations, jumpers, programming changes, etc.
• •Development, implementation and monitoring of “man-machine” interface and SOP’s
• •Troubleshooting and Root cause analysis of equipment and software failures
• •Process hazards identified and control logic, limits and other safeguards implemented and maintained in reliable

5. Problem Solving and Decision-Making Ability

• •Provide technical assistance to all plant personnel in solving control and process problems by utilizing SPC, SQL, Historian, and other tools.
• •Work closely with the division/corporate Automation team to ensure consistency.

6. Training and development

• •Develop yourself as a positive learner/professional who participates in cross-functional communication and training between production and engineering teams.
• •Drive culture changes of the plants from reactive to proactive in their approach to asset management and reliability.
• •Provide feedback to direct managers and supervisors of those managed through projects.
• •Train and upskill electricians and other team members

7. Plant IT support for computers, hardware and software.

• •Install, maintain, and support all plant personal computer hardware and software. Liaison for corporate IT department on computer hardware and software installation, maintenance, and upgrades.
• •Proficiency in windows based operating systems and networking.

8. Perform other duties as assigned.

ATTRIBUTES:

• •Knowledge of PLC system design (Rockwell Automation preferred) and demonstrated capabilities with computers, VFDs, HMIs, Factory Talk View SE, process instrumentation, supervisory software and networks.
• •Must be able perform advanced mathematical calculations, including advanced algebra and statistics.
• •Self-motivated and able to work independently.
• •Develop experience with our Control Systems and HMIs.
• •Effective oral, written, and spoken communication skills.
• •Strong interpersonal skills and problem-solving skills.
• •Read, write, and interpret documents such as work orders, safety rules, standard operating procedures, electrical drawings, maintenance instructions, and procedural manuals.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• •Must be physically able to perform work assigned.
• •Must be physically capable of accessing all plant locations.
• •Access all areas within a site which could include heights of 150 feet, confined spaces, climbing ladders or stairs, and accessing tunnels.
• •Will be working at times in covered environment but mainly in a lime/mineral environment.
• •The employee will be exposed to the following working conditions: Extreme Heat and Cold, Noise, Vibration, Oils, and Atmospheric Conditions such as Dust, Fumes, and Lime/Mineral Particles.
• •The employee will be required to perform the following actions (from time to time): Standing, walking, balancing, stooping, kneeling, reaching, talking, seeing, hearing and sitting.
• •Ability to lift/carry up to 50 pounds.

REQUIRED EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering or Instrumentation. Associate degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or related technical field or demonstrated skills and ability and/or equivalent proven work experience in the field.

PREFERRED EDUCATION:

BS Degree or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation, or Computer Science

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:

3 years or more in electrical system design, operations, and maintenance in an industrial, heavy manufacturing or mining backgroundundefined

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:

5+ years in Automation, electrical system design, operations, and maintenance in an industrial background. Working knowledge of programming PLCs and HMIs, Plant PAX, Allen-Bradley and Wonderware highly preferred. AutoCAD experience is highly desired.

Lhoist North America is proud to offer a highly competitive compensation package designed to support your well-being and future.

Our benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, along with paid vacation and sick time. We also offer an attractive 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with a generous Employer Match as well as a Supplemental Contribution based on your Years of Service to help you plan confidently for the future. We recognize that growth doesn’t stop at the workplace. That’s why we provide educational assistance to encourage continued learning and professional development, empowering our employees to reach their full potential.

At Lhoist North America, your success is our investment.

Lhoist North America is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We are committed to fostering a workplace that values inclusion, respect, and diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. We believe that a diverse and inclusive environment strengthens our teams and drives innovation. That’s why we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply and strive to ensure every employee feels respected, supported, and empowered to succeed.

At Lhoist North America, inclusion isn’t just a policy, it’s a core part of who we are.

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