Senior Automation & Controls Engineer – Manager

Smithfield Foods

Senior Automation and Controls Engineering Manager leading automation solutions for a food company. Driving process improvements and technology roadmap across a fleet of manufacturing plants.

Posted 6/3/2026full-timeSuffolk • Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesSeniorWebsite

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Hard Skills

data analysisprocess optimizationperformance managementautomation solutionsmachine learningPLC programmingHMI programmingSCADA system developmentnetworked control systemsIIoT solutions

Soft Skills

team managementproject leadershipcommunication skillsorganizational planningteamworkanalytical reasoningadaptability

Tools & Technologies

Ignition software

Certifications & Qualifications

Lean certificationSix Sigma certification

Industry Keywords

manufacturingfood processingmeat industry

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

IoT

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Analyze data and draft implementation plans for production process optimization
Execute process and performance management systems & controls across a fleet of 35+ plants
Seek out ways to maximize efficiencies by eliminating the waste of valuable resources
Help define and update the long-term technology roadmap of the company
Lead a talented group of continuous improvement, engineer, maintenance, and operations professionals
Develop and design automation solutions using fundamental controls and process engineering knowledge
Combine machine learning capability to create scalable controls and manufacturing solutions
Monitor and evaluate external technology trends that could impact the company
Conduct research and case studies on leading edge automation technologies

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Engineering or related field and 8+ years of relevant experience in manufacturing industries with a strong focus on automation and controls design; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
2+ years of demonstrated experience in team management/development or project leadership is required.
Experience in development of distributed, networked control systems, especially Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions
Skilled at PLC/HMI programming, equipment connectivity, and SCADA system development for production floor management.
Expert knowledge in the development within Ignition software is required.
Lean or six sigma experience (green or black belt certified preferred)
Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning and adaptability.
Must be able to travel up to 50% of the time.
Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive training and professional development programs
Tuition assistance covering English language learning, high school completion, and degree programs
Smithfield Scholarship Program for employees’ children