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Permanent Payload Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Syngenta

Senior Automation Engineer

Malta, IL · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

... payloads and operating environments. * Prototyping & Implementation: Build and iterate physical ... Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis without ...

Syngenta Group

Senior Automation Engineer

Malta, IL · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

... payloads and operating environments. * Prototyping & Implementation: Build and iterate physical ... Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis without ...

All JobsPermanent Payload Operator JobsPermanent Payload Operator Jobs in Illinois

Permanent Payload Operator information

What is a permanent payload operator?

A Permanent Payload Operator is a professional responsible for managing and controlling the payload systems on spacecraft, satellites, or other aerospace vehicles. They ensure that scientific instruments, communication devices, or cargo are properly operated and monitored during missions. Their duties include real-time payload operation, troubleshooting, data analysis, and coordination with mission control teams. Permanent Payload Operators are typically employed by space agencies, private aerospace companies, or research organizations for ongoing or long-term missions.

What are some typical challenges permanent payload operators face when managing satellite operations, and how can they prepare for them?

Permanent Payload Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining seamless communication with multiple satellites, troubleshooting real-time anomalies, and adapting quickly to rapidly changing mission parameters. These professionals must stay alert during shifts—sometimes outside regular hours—and work closely with engineering and mission control teams to ensure payload performance. Staying updated on payload software, understanding telemetry, and developing strong problem-solving skills help operators handle these scenarios effectively and minimize mission risks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a permanent payload operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Permanent Payload Operator, you need strong technical aptitude in aerospace operations, attention to detail, and typically a background in engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with satellite control software, telemetry systems, and industry certifications such as a Remote Sensing or Space Operations license are often required. Excellent problem-solving skills, situational awareness, and clear communication are vital soft skills for responding to anomalies and collaborating with mission teams. These skills ensure safe, precise payload management and mission success in the high-stakes environment of space operations.

What is the difference between Permanent Payload Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectPermanent Payload OperatorCrane Operator
Required CertificationsPayload handling, safety, and equipment operation certificationsCrane operation licenses and safety certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, warehouses, shipping yardsConstruction sites, shipping ports, industrial facilities
Industry UsageLogistics, shipping, manufacturingConstruction, shipping, heavy lifting

Both roles involve equipment operation in industrial settings, with overlapping certifications and work environments. The main difference is that Permanent Payload Operators focus specifically on handling payloads in logistics and shipping contexts, while Crane Operators operate cranes for lifting heavy materials in construction and industrial projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Payload Operator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Payload Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Permanent Payload Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Permanent Payload Operator job openings:

Permanent Payload Operator jobs near you

Senior Automation Engineer

Malta, IL • On-site

Syngenta
See more jobs at Syngentaexternal

$97K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Company Description

About Syngenta 

At Syngenta Seeds Field Crops, we're shaping the future of agriculture and empowering farmers to meet the ever-growing demand for food and fuel. We're a global Ag Tech powerhouse, headquartered in the United States, with passionate, local experts collaborating with farmers to deliver solutions that create market opportunities.  We unite precision breeding, advanced biotechnology trait choice, and digital platforms for unmatched in-field performance.  

Our seeds help mitigate risks such as disease, insect, weed, and extreme weather pressures, all while promoting sustainable farming practices that protect and enhance our planet. Join our mission of revolutionizing food security and transforming agriculture. 

Job Description

At Syngenta, our goal is to build the most collaborative and trustworthy team in agriculture, providing top-quality seeds and innovative crop protection solutions that improve farmers' success. To support this mission, Syngenta's Automation & Engineering Team is seeking a Senior Automation Engineer in Malta, IL. This role will lead the design, development, prototyping, and deployment of end-to-end automation systems that drive efficiency, precision, and scalability within Seeds R&D. This hands-on role focuses on innovating and integrating engineering solutions from concept to production.

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, the ideal candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate complex requirements into robust, production-ready systems. Success in this role requires a blend of deep technical expertise, practical prototyping skills, and a passion for innovation in agricultural automation.

Accountabilities:

  • System Design & Development: Lead the architectural design and integration of automated systems from concept to production, incorporating PLCs, robotics, and mechanical/electrical components. Use CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) to produce detailed 3D models, simulations, and assembly drawings.
  • Vision-Guided Automation: Develop and optimize high-speed, high-accuracy pick-and-place systems using machine vision and robotic arms to handle multiple payloads and operating environments.
  • Prototyping & Implementation: Build and iterate physical prototypes using rapid prototyping methods (e.g., 3D printing, CNC machining). Perform hands-on assembly, testing, and debugging of components, ensuring seamless integration of sensors, actuators, and end-effectors. Coordinate with external vendors for parts fabrication as needed.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with breeders, data scientists, biologists, engineers, and operations teams to solve complex robotics and automation challenges.
  • Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Stay current with emerging technologies (e.g., collaborative robots, automation platforms) to deliver cutting-edge solutions.
  • Conduct cost-benefit analyses and tradeoff evaluations to optimize design efficiency and component selection.
  • Project Delivery & Governance: Manage project timelines and deliverables using Agile methodologies and engineering best practices.
  • Documentation & Reporting: Prepare comprehensive technical reports, SOPs, and presentations to communicate findings and support regulatory submissions or patent filings.
Qualifications

PLEASE NOTE: Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis without requiring current or future sponsorship (which also includes OPT/CPT and H-1B visas).

Education:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related experience.

Experience:

  • 7+ years in robotics and automation engineering, with at least 4 years in hands-on prototyping and automation system integration.
  • Proven track record of delivering end-to-end projects in industrial automation or laboratory environments.

Technical Skills:

  • Design & CAD: Proficient in mechanical design using SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or CATIA. Experienced with finite element analysis (FEA) tools such as ANSYS for stress and structural analysis.
  • Robotics Hardware: Hands-on experience with servo motors, grippers, pneumatic actuators, and integration of pick-and-place robots, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and collaborative robots (e.g., Universal Robots, KUKA).
  • Vision & Sensing: Skilled in machine vision systems such asOpenCV, HALCON, Keyence, and Cognex VisionPro. Experienced in sensor fusion involving LiDAR, IMUs, and force/torque sensors.
  • Prototyping & Electronics: Familiar with rapid prototyping platforms such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi, as well as 3D printing. Experienced in PCB design, electronic wiring, breadboarding, and fabrication of custom electronic systems, such as soldering, enclosure design, and microcontroller integration.
  • Programming & Control: Expertise in Python, MATLAB, National Instruments LabVIEW, ROS (Robot Operating System), and C/C++/C#. Skilled in PLC programming using Ladder Logic and Structured Text.
  • AI-Augmented Development: Proficient in leveraging AI-powered tools like GitHub Copilot to accelerate development, automate engineering tasks, and enhance team productivity.
  • Version Control & DevOps: Experienced in applying version control best practices using Git-based systems (GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket), such as branching strategies, commit hygiene, CI/CD integration, and team training for repository management and code integrity.
Additional Information

Salary for the role is $114,100 -  $163,000 per year.

What We Offer:

  • A culture that celebrates belonging and collaboration, promotes professional development and strives for a work-life balance that supports the team members. Offers flexible work options to support your work and personal needs.
  • Full Benefit Package (Medical, Dental & Vision) that starts your first day.
  • 401k plan with company match, Profit Sharing & Retirement Savings Contribution.
  • Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, Maternity and Paternity Leave, Education Assistance, Wellness Programs, Corporate Discounts, among other benefits.

Syngenta has been ranked as a top employer by Science Journal. Learn more about our team and our mission here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVCN_51GbNI

Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

WL: 5B

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