Python Automation Engineer Jobs in San Diego, CA

Position Objective

Design, program, install, and maintain the plant’s industrial automation and instrumentation infrastructure, including Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, field instrumentation, and industrial networks across all production areas. Develop, maintain, and improve internal applications and digital systems that support Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and Packaging.

Lead automation, digitalization, and continuous improvement projects that increase production availability, efficiency, and process traceability. Ensure compliance with the company’s food safety, quality, maintenance, and safety policies and procedures.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field.
• Languages: Bilingual English and Spanish required.
• Experience: Minimum 1 year of experience developing internal applications, plant operating systems, and/or industrial programming.
• Travel: Must be available to travel for training, corporate meetings, and supplier support.
• Schedule Availability: Must be willing and able to work any shift when required due to projects, scheduled shutdowns, or critical equipment failures.

Required Knowledge

• Programming with JavaScript, HTML, CSS, Python, and Google Apps Script.
• Allen-Bradley PLC programming using Studio 5000 and RSLogix.
• Siemens PLC programming using TIA Portal.
• HMI / SCADA development using FactoryTalk View and WinCC.
• IEC 61131-3 programming languages: Ladder, Structured Text, and Function Block Diagram.
• Industrial instrumentation: 4-20 mA signals, HART, RTDs, thermocouples, transmitters, and control valves.
• PID control loop tuning.
• Industrial networks: EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP/RTU.
• Allen-Bradley PowerFlex and Siemens Sinamics variable frequency drives (VFDs).
• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, P&IDs, and loop diagrams.
• Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and version control tools.
• Industrial electrical safety, including NFPA 70E and Lockout/Tagout.
• Knowledge of SQF, HACCP, GMP, food defense, and traceability.
• Knowledge of sugar refining and packaging production processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain internal web applications for Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and Packaging.
• Design mobile-first / iPad-first interfaces for plant operators, including bilingual English/Spanish support.
• Integrate applications with plant and laboratory data and real-time dashboards.
• Provide technical support and training to internal users.
• Maintain the existing application ecosystem through corrective and continuous improvements, testing, backups, and requested enhancements.
• Install, program, modify, and maintain Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLCs throughout production areas.
• Develop and maintain HMI / SCADA interfaces for operators and supervisors.
• Maintain backups, version control, and technical documentation for PLC, HMI, and SCADA programs.
• Diagnose and resolve control system failures to minimize production downtime.
• Specify, install, calibrate, and maintain field instrumentation.
• Configure and tune PID control loops for critical processes.
• Maintain updated electrical and instrumentation documentation, including P&IDs, loop diagrams, I/O lists, and panel drawings.
• Design, configure, and maintain industrial networks.
• Integrate variable frequency drives (VFDs), soft starters, and auxiliary devices.
• Lead automation, digitalization, and continuous improvement projects from requirements gathering through implementation, commissioning, and documentation.
• Implement safe shutdown logic, interlocks, and permissives for critical systems.
• Coordinate with external suppliers and specialized integrators, including Rockwell and Siemens support.
• Support SQF food safety requirements related to automated systems, including reliable CCP, alarm, and traceability records.
• Follow GMP requirements when working on automated equipment and field instrumentation.

Skills

• Technical problem-solving and troubleshooting.
• Structured programming and systems design.
• Technical documentation and version control.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Clear communication with operations teams and management.
• Ability to train and support end users.
• Coordination with suppliers and external integrators.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and as part of a team.
• Independent judgment and technical decision-making.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English and Spanish.