Junior Systems Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Advanced Automation Systems Engineer

The Senior Advanced Automation Systems Engineer is responsible for leading the design, development, integration, and implementation of advanced automation solutions for manufacturing processes. The primary objective of this role is to improve manufacturing efficiency, reliability, safety, and product quality through innovative automation technologies while ensuring compliance with internal standards and external regulations.

This position serves as a technical leader for automation initiatives across G&W manufacturing facilities and is expected to drive complex projects from concept through commissioning. The role also provides mentorship to junior engineers and technical guidance to manufacturing, maintenance, and support personnel on implemented systems, equipment, and technologies.

As a Sr. Advanced Automation Systems Engineer you will:

• Lead the identification, development, justification, and deployment of advanced automation projects across manufacturing operations.
• Design and implement complex automation systems to improve safety, quality, throughput, and operational efficiency.
• Serve as a technical lead on automation and robotics projects, including system architecture, integration strategy, risk assessment, and project execution.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external vendors/integrators to develop machine concepts, robotic technologies, and automated manufacturing solutions.
• Lead integration, programming, commissioning, troubleshooting, validation, and startup activities for automation systems and robotics projects.
• Develop and support Industry 4.0 initiatives including IoT connectivity, machine data collection, analytics, and smart manufacturing technologies.
• Develop detailed equipment requirements, specifications, and standards for specialized molding, assembly, testing, and visual inspection processes.
• Create and review system architecture diagrams, electrical installation drawings, BOMs, network layouts, and procurement documentation.
• Collaborate with operations leadership to evaluate and implement emerging technologies with the highest potential impact on manufacturing productivity and reliability.
• Drive project execution through effective planning, scheduling, resource coordination, risk mitigation, and issue resolution to ensure successful and timely completion.
• Provide advanced troubleshooting support for manufacturing equipment, controls systems, robotics, and integrated automation systems.
• Develop and maintain expertise in plant-wide manufacturing processes, equipment, controls standards, and automation technologies.
• Mentor and provide technical leadership to junior engineers, technicians, and cross-functional teams.
• Develop, update, and audit work procedures, standard work instructions, validation protocols, and process documentation.
• Ensure automation systems comply with applicable safety standards, machine guarding requirements, and company engineering practices.
• Remain current on advancements in automation, robotics, controls, and manufacturing technologies, and incorporate best practices into future initiatives.
• Support capital planning activities including budgeting, scope development, vendor evaluation, and ROI analysis.
• Other duties as assigned.

We are looking for someone with:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Computer, Mechanical, or related Engineering discipline required.
• Minimum 5+ years of relevant engineering experience in industrial automation, manufacturing automation, or controls engineering.
• Advanced experience programming and troubleshooting PLC systems including Rockwell (Allen-Bradley), Siemens, GE, or other industry-standard platforms.
• Advanced experience developing HMI/SCADA applications using Ignition, FactoryTalk View (RSView), WinCC, or other industry-standard interfaces.
• Experience with robotics integration, motion control systems, machine safety systems, and industrial networking protocols.
• Strong understanding of automation system architecture, controls integration, and manufacturing equipment design.
• Demonstrated experience leading automation projects from concept through implementation and production support.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills with the ability to resolve complex technical challenges.
• Effective communication and cross-functional collaboration skills with the ability to work across all levels of the organization.
• Working knowledge of electrical schematics, control panel design, instrumentation, and industrial safety standards.

Ideally you will have:

• Project management and leadership
• Six sigma, Red X, or other problem-solving certification
• Lean manufacturing certification
• Experience working cross-functionally with all levels of the organization structure.

The Physical Demands / Working Conditions of the role are:

• General Office Environment, PC use
• Light Lifting (occasional 25 lbs or less)
• Stooping
• Standing
• Heavy Lifting (frequent 25 lbs +)

What we offer you:

Typical pay is $98,872 – 128,577 annually.

This position is eligible for participation in our Quarterly Incentive Pay Program

G&W Electric offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Short and Long-Term Disability
• Life Insurance
• Health club membership program and reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• 401 (k)
• Annual Profit Sharing
• Vacation
• Air-conditioned/heated state-of-the-art manufacturing facility

About G&W Electric

Innovating since 1905, G&W Electric has grown into a global leader in engineered electrical power grid solutions. Working with us means joining a worldwide team of passionate manufacturing professionals striving to continually improve the technologies the world depends on to deliver safe, reliable electricity. Our culture is focused on employee success, so we foster an entrepreneurial environment that encourages everyone to thrive.

Learn more about our company by watching this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMtAhsdYeUQ

G&W Electric enjoys a long reputation for product quality, innovation and world-class customer service to the power industry. We have established this reputation by believing that our greatest asset is our employees. We owe our success to the initiative and talents of highly skilled individuals within our team-based organization. Our goal is to set the standard for customer satisfaction by ensuring a superior level of service, performance and innovation. As a global organization and industry leader, we are committed to cultivating an engaging work environment that embraces our core values and develops our talent. Our continuous focus on growth and innovation means that you become part of a company that provides challenging opportunities, rewards excellence and combines your individual expertise to achieve a higher level of shared success. As part of our organization, you also help power the world!

G&W Electric is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employees and applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law. G&W Electric participates in the E-Verify process for all new hires.

*G&W Electric participates in the E-Verify process for all new hires.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor