Plant Engineer

Plant Engineer – Automation & ControlsLocation: Hudson County, NJWork Hours: Monday – Friday, 6:30 AM – 3:30 PM Salary: $110,000 – $120,000 per yearEmployee Benefits:401(k)401(k) matchingDental insuranceEmployee discountHealth insuranceHealth savings accountLife insurancePaid time offVision insurance A well-established food manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced Plant Engineer to support automation technologies, high-speed packaging operations, and facility engineering initiatives. This role partners closely with production and maintenance teams to improve operational efficiency, equipment reliability, safety, and product quality while supporting engineering and automation projects across the plant.QualificationsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical disciplineMinimum 5+ years of experience in plant engineering, automation engineering, or manufacturing engineeringProficiency in PLC programming, specifically Allen-Bradley / RSLogix 5000 / Studio 5000Experience working with Rockwell FactoryTalk HMI/SCADA systemsExperience supporting or collaborating with maintenance teams and maintenance operationsStrong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departmentsDemonstrated experience leading and managing engineering or automation projectsPreferred QualificationsExperience within food manufacturing or other regulated production environmentsFamiliarity with high-speed packaging equipment and production linesExperience working with SQL databases for data analysis and system integrationExposure to Ignition SCADA platformsKnowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologiesJob ResponsibilitiesAutomation & Controls EngineeringDevelop, maintain, and optimize controls systems that support production and packaging operationsProgram and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley PLCs using RSLogix 5000 / Studio 5000Support, configure, and enhance FactoryTalk HMI/SCADA platformsAnalyze automation system performance and implement improvements to increase reliability and efficiencyProvide technical support for equipment commissioning, upgrades, and automation initiativesMaintenance & Operational SupportProvide advanced technical expertise to maintenance teams for diagnosing electrical, mechanical, and controls issuesSupport preventive and predictive maintenance strategies to maximize equipment uptimeParticipate in root cause analysis and develop sustainable corrective actionsProject ManagementLead engineering and automation projects from concept through implementation, including scoping, budgeting, planning, and executionCoordinate with internal stakeholders, vendors, and contractors to ensure successful project deliveryMaintain proper documentation and ensure compliance with company and regulatory standardsSystems, Data & Technology IntegrationUtilize SQL to extract and analyze operational data and support system integrationsSupport digital transformation initiatives and data-driven decision-making within the facilityAssist in the implementation and optimization of plant automation systemsCompliance & SafetyEnsure adherence to food safety regulations, OSHA standards, and internal safety policiesSupport audits, documentation reviews, and engineering change management processesPromote a safe working environment through proactive risk assessment and continuous improvementKey CompetenciesStrong analytical, diagnostic, and problem-solving skillsDetail-oriented with a hands-on engineering approachAbility to manage multiple priorities and engineering initiatives simultaneouslyStrong leadership and cross-functional collaboration abilitiesCommitment to safety, quality, and operational excellenceEqual Opportunity EmployerOur client is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment based on race, color, gender, sexual orientation or gender identity, national origin, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.