Project Engineer-Level 1 Automation

Position PurposeThe Automation Engineer is responsible for a wide range of software and process engineering activities that support safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations. This role focuses on analyzing process performance, identifying and prioritizing improvement opportunities, and designing and implementing effective solutions to enhance productivity, quality, and system reliability. Key responsibilities include developing and modifying control strategies, optimizing automation systems, and leading the execution of process improvements from concept through commissioning. The Automation Engineer also maintains and supports all Level 1 and Level 1.5 hardware and control platforms, ensuring their integrity, availability, and performance.Essential ResponsibilitiesProcess & Automation EngineeringDevelop and implement methods and best practices to improve product quality, expand product capabilities, and reduce manufacturing costs through the effective use of advanced automation technologies.Design, develop, and manage Level 1 process control systems and related engineering projects to optimize production efficiency, improve yield, and enhance overall product quality.Analyze process performance using data-driven approaches, identify improvement opportunities, and implement sustainable solutions to drive continuous improvement.Technical Support & TroubleshootingProvide advanced troubleshooting, technical guidance, and hands-on support to Maintenance and Operations teams, including Level 1.5 EMO (Engineering Maintenance Operator) personnel within the Rolling Mill.Maintain, support, and continuously improve all Level 1 electrical and control systems to ensure high reliability, performance, and compliance with applicable industrial standards.Deliver specialized technical support for process control systems and software across the Rolling Mill and Finishing Area, ensuring stable and efficient operation.Supervisory Computer Systems Management (Level 1 & Level 1.5)Hardware ManagementPerform preventive and time-based maintenance on automation and control system hardware to ensure optimal performance and reliability.Identify, evaluate, and replace obsolete or failing field components to maintain system integrity and minimize downtime.Manage and maintain I/O interface cabling and associated hardware to ensure accurate and reliable signal transmission.Monitor system performance, including diagnostics, fault detection, and recovery, to support continuous and stable operations.Software ManagementMonitor automation and control applications to ensure accurate, stable, and efficient operation across all platforms.Manage and maintain system backups, including administration of the FactoryTalk AssetCentre server, to ensure data integrity and disaster recovery readiness.Analyze, diagnose, and troubleshoot operating systems and application software to resolve issues and minimize downtime.Perform maintenance programming and configure system and application software to support ongoing operations and continuous improvement initiatives.Interface ManagementPlan, design, develop, implement, and maintain HMI applications to support safe, efficient, and user-friendly operation of process equipment.Collaborate with Operations and Maintenance teams to ensure interfaces are intuitive, standardized, and aligned with operational needs.Maintain and enhance HMI standards, including graphics, alarms, and navigation, to ensure consistency and effectiveness across systems.Troubleshoot and optimize HMI performance to ensure reliability, responsiveness, and accurate real-time data visualization.Documentation ManagementDevelop, organize, and maintain accurate technical documentation, including system configurations, historical records, and change logs.Create and update user guides, operating procedures, and “help” documentation to support Operations and Maintenance teams.Analyze and reverse-engineer existing systems, when required, to reconstruct and document software specifications and functionality.Operations SupportRespond to operator requests and provide timely resolution of automation and control system issues to support continuous operations.Provide 24/7 on-call support for critical systems, ensuring rapid response and minimal disruption to production.Train and support Electrical EMO (Engineering Maintenance Operator) personnel on new software, system updates, and control system enhancements.Specialized Equipment & Systems SupportProvide expert-level technical support, troubleshooting, and hands-on assistance for critical process and automation systems, ensuring compliance with design specifications and applicable industrial standards.Support and maintain process control systems for the Reheat Furnace, Rolling Mill, and Finishing areas to ensure reliable and efficient operation.Maintain and troubleshoot electrical and automation systems, with a strong focus on Allen-Bradley platforms and associated hardware.Support and integrate specialized human-machine interfaces (HMI), business system networks, and supplier system connections to ensure seamless data flow and system interoperability. Education, Experience, and Competencies RequiredBachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and technical experience.Minimum of five (5) years of experience working with ControlLogix and other Rockwell Automation platformsStrong understanding of process interactions between control systems and physical processes within a steel plate manufacturing environment.Demonstrated ability to apply sound engineering and economic judgment in process control decision-makingIn-depth knowledge of industrial automation systems, including control system hardware, industrial computers, multitasking operating systems, real-time communication networks, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs), with the ability to integrate these into effective process control solutions.Proficiency in ControlLogix and FactoryTalk View programming environments.Solid understanding of mathematical principles supporting closed-loop, real-time control systemsStrong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills, both written and verbalAbility to work independently with minimal supervision and manage multiple priorities effectivelyRegular and reliable attendance PreferredPrevious experience troubleshooting industrial electrical and electronic systems in a heavy industrial or manufacturing environment.Formal training in computer hardware, software systems, or related disciplines.Strong computer skills, including database management, networking concepts, and experience with software development languages or industrial software suites.Proficiency in programming, configuring, and tuning AC and DC digital drive systems.Solid understanding of DC motor theory, operation, and control principles.Knowledge of mill stand control systems and winder applications within a steel manufacturing environment. Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct ReportsThis position does not have supervisory responsibilities and has no direct reports.Work Environment and Physical Demands The employee will frequently be required to:Twist at the waist and reach above shoulder level, as well as at or below waist level.Handle, grip, hold, and grasp objects using one or both hands.Finger and feel objects with one or both hands, including the ability to sense temperature and textureThe employee will occasionally be required to:Drive or travel by automobile or airplane as part of job responsibilities.Balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, or climb as required in industrial environment.Push, pull, lift, and/or carry items weighing up to 50 pounds.The position requires the following vision and hearing capabilities:Talking person to person, on the phone, and/or in group settingsHearing in person, on the phone, and/or in group settingsVision at near, mid, and far rangePeripheral vision and depth perceptionThe employee will be required to sit, stand, and/or walk as follows:Sitting 0-8 hours at a time; average 5 hours a dayStanding 0-8 hours at a time; average 2 hours a dayWalking 0-8 hours at a time; average 1 hourAlternate sitting and standing as neededThe employee will be required to use the following machines or tools:Desktop computerControl softwareMultimeterDatabaseThe employee will work in the following conditions:IndoorsIn extreme heat and extreme coldIn wet and humid conditionsAmid fumes, dust, dirt, and smokeIn confined areas and high placesAround equipment in motionAmid noiseAmid mechanical, electrical, and chemical hazardsAround industrial magnetsWhile wearing safety equipment and/or clothing for protection from hazardsPosition Type, Work Hours, and Travel RequirementsPosition is full time, exemptPosition works day shift, Monday through Friday – additional overtime as neededOffice presence requiredTravel for this position is limitedOther DutiesThis job description is not intended to provide an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or activities required for this position. Additional tasks may be assigned, and responsibilities may be modified at any time, with or without prior notice, to meet operational needs.SSAB BENEFITS – starting at hire!● Excellent Pay with Additional Bonus● Very Affordable Health InsuranceBlue Cross/Blue Shield MedicalCVS/Caremark PrescriptionDelta DentalSuperior Vision● 401(k) with Employer Match – 5%● Profit Sharing● 10 Paid Holidays● Vacation● Company Paid Life Insurance - and STD and LTD*● Optional Life, Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness● Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)● Tuition Reimbursement● Employee Assistance Program