Automation Engineer I Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

At Niagara, we’re looking for Team Members who want to be part of achieving our mission to provide our customers the highest quality most affordable bottled water. This entry‑level Automation Engineer I role supports automation initiatives across manufacturing plants. The engineer assists in the design, programming, and troubleshooting of automation systems spanning multiple equipment OEMs and technology generations, with an emphasis on skill development, mentorship, and expanding technical scope over time. The role includes exposure to data‑driven and emerging technologies, including AI‑assisted diagnostics and tools.

• Own programming, testing, and maintenance of PLC, HMI, and control systems.
• Support automation project execution under the direction of senior engineers.
• Participate in commissioning and validation of new equipment and upgrades.
• Perform structured troubleshooting using established diagnostic and root‑cause techniques.
• Escalate issues with clear data, observations, and hypotheses.
• Apply repeatable troubleshooting methods and collaborate with maintenance and production teams to resolve technical issues.
• Document changes and updates to control systems.
• Develop the ability to assess multiple solution options, understand associated risks, and document assumptions and learning outcomes.
• Collect and validate operational data to support automation improvements, including AI‑assisted analytics, visualization, or alerting tools.
• Assist with implementing continuous improvement initiatives to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and quality teams to align automation activities with production needs.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, company policies, and regulatory requirements.

• 0‑2 years of experience in automation, controls, or manufacturing.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field.
• Foundational knowledge of PLCs, control systems, and industrial automation.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Experience with Rockwell, Siemens, or similar PLC platforms.
• Familiarity with SCADA systems, HMIs, and industrial networks.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.

• 2 years of experience in a field or similar manufacturing environment.
• 2 years of experience working in Position 2 Years – Experience managing people/projects.
• Internship or co‑op experience in automation, controls, or manufacturing.
• Exposure to data analytics tools, scripting, or AI‑assisted engineering platforms.
• Master’s degree in a related field.

Salary: $82,011.54 – $118,916.74 annually.

• Paid Time Off: holidays, sick, and vacation time.
• Parental and caregiver leaves.
• Medical, dental, vision, and virtual care options.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Health Savings Account with company match.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Expanded mental wellbeing benefits, including free counseling sessions for all team members and household family members.
• Family building benefits: enhanced fertility benefits for IVF and fertility preservation, plus adoption, surrogacy, and doula reimbursements.
• Income protection: Life and AD&D, short and long‑term disability, critical illness, and accident plan.
• Special discount programs: pet plans, pre‑paid legal services, identity theft protection, car rental, airport parking, etc.
• Tuition reimbursement, college savings plan, and scholarship opportunities.

During the course of employment, 50% of the time may involve travel. The position is available only to applicants located within Los Angeles County.

Niagara Bottling LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, national origin, veteran status or disability in relation to our recruiting, hiring, and promoting practices.