Automation Controls Manager Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Building the people that build the world.

With platforms in HVAC and Detection and Measurement, SPX Technologies builds innovative solutions that enable a safer, more efficient, sustainable world.  Through our RiSE talent development framework, we Reach, Identify, Strengthen, and Engage our employees to support them in their continued development.  We're a global company of problem solvers, collaborators, and innovators, and our businesses build solutions that impact the world.

How you will make an Impact (Job Summary)

SPX is a diverse team of unique individuals who all make an impact. As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a critical role in defining, developing, and deploying automation strategies across multiple manufacturing facilities that improve safety, quality, and productivity. This role will focus on robotic welding cells, automated material handling systems (AGVs, AMRs, AGCs), and the integration of metal fabrication equipment with enterprise systems such as SAP. Reporting to the Manager of Advanced Manufacturing, you will work cross-functionally with manufacturing, controls, IT, quality, and external suppliers to deploy scalable automation solutions from concept through production.

What you can expect in this role (Job Responsibilities)

While each day brings new opportunities at SPX, your core responsibilities will be:

1. Automation system design and implementation
   • Design, specify, and implement automated manufacturing systems including robotic welding cells, part handling automation, and auxiliary equipment.
   • Lead automation projects from concept through installation, commissioning, and production handoff.
   • Support robot programming, end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), fixturing concepts, and cell safety design.
   • Coordinate with OEMs, integrators, and internal teams to ensure systems meet performance, safety, and reliability requirements.

1. PLC programming and controls integration:

• Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems using platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Omron, or similar.
• Integrate PLCs with robots, weld power supplies, safety systems, vision systems, and automated material handling equipment.
• Manage equipment projects from concept through installation, commissioning, and handoff to production.
• Develop and support HMI interfaces for operators and maintenance personnel, including alarms, diagnostics, and recipe management.
• Implement standardized control architectures, naming conventions, alarm strategies, and documentation.

1. Robotic welding and fabrication automation:
   • Lead the technical design and deployment of robotic welding systems, including MIG, TIG, and laser welding applications.
   • Establish standard robotic cell architectures, tooling concepts, and programming best practices to improve repeatability and uptime.
   • Serve as a technical mentor and escalation point for plant-based automation engineers, manufacturing engineers, and technicians.
2. Manufacturing software and systems integration

• Support integration of metal fabrication and automation software with upstream enterprise systems, including SAP.
• Define standards for machine connectivity, job routing, recipe management, and production data collection.
• Communicate project status, risks, and technical decisions effectively to engineering leadership and plant stakeholders.
• Collaborate with IT and controls teams to ensure secure, reliable communication using industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, etc.).

1. Continuous improvement, safety, and support

• Identify and implement automation-driven improvements that increase throughput, reduce labor, improve ergonomics, and enhance safety.
• Troubleshoot complex automation issues involving PLC logic, robots, sensors, drives, and communication networks.
• Ensure automation systems comply with applicable machine and electrical safety standards, including risk assessments, guarding, interlocks, and safety PLCs.

What we are looking for (Experience, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education)

We each bring something to the table, and we are looking for someone who has:

Required Experience

• Minimum 5-10 years of experience in automation engineering, controls engineering, or manufacturing engineering with a strong automation focus.

• Hands-on experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Omron, or similar).

• Experience integrating PLCs with robots, HMIs, sensors, VFDs, safety systems, and industrial networks.

• Hands-on experience supporting manufacturing environments involving metals, fabricated components, or complex assemblies.

Preferred Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong ability to work in a fast-paced, multi-site manufacturing environment with competing priorities.
• Familiarity with industrial robots (Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa, or similar).
• Solid understanding of lean manufacturing principles, continuous improvement tools, and structured problem-solving.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with ERP systems (SAP preferred).
• Working knowledge of 2D/3D CAD and manufacturing layouts.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Controls, Mechatronics, Manufacturing, or related engineering field.
• PLC, robotics, or machine safety certifications are a plus.
  

Travel & Working Environment

• Onsite, plant and office environment; shop floor environment with varying degrees of noise levels

• Occasional off-shift or weekend support may be required during major startups or breakdowns.
• Travel up to 25-40% may be required to support multiple facilities, equipment suppliers, and project deployments.

How we live our culture

Our culture is at the center of what we do and, more importantly, who we are.  Our core values set a standard for how we manage ourselves, and our Leadership Model sets the standard for how we engage with each other.  Whether you are an individual contributor or you lead a large team, each of us leads at SPX.  

What benefits do we offer?

We know that the well-being of our employees is integral. Our benefits include:

• Generous and flexible paid time off including paid personal time off, caregiver, parental, and volunteer leave
• Competitive health insurance plans and 401(k) match, with benefits starting day one
• Competitive and performance-based compensation packages and bonus plans
• Educational assistance, leadership development programs, and recognition programs  

Our commitment to embrace diversity to build a culture of inclusion at SPX

We value different backgrounds, experiences, and voices at SPX, and we are committed to challenging ourselves, openly communicating, and striving to improve every day.  We believe in creating an inclusive work environment where everyone has a voice and is encouraged to realize their fullest potential. 

SPX is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer committed to making selection decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected basis.