Senior Automation Engineer Jobs in Pooler, GA (NOW HIRING)

This position is responsible for the design, implementation, integration, and ongoing operation of manufacturing-related IT systems-with primary ownership of the manufacturing execution system (MES) to ensure stable production operations and accurate manufacturing data. This role supports both PE Richmond and BSA2 (Ellabell, GA) by partnering with cross-functional manufacturing and IT teams to analyze production processes, configure and enhance system functions, integrate shop-floor systems with connected platforms (e.g., ERP, SCADA, PLC/equipment interfaces), and provide technical leadership to optimize workflows, reporting, and overall system performance. The position monitors system availability, troubleshoots incidents, manages upgrades/patches/security enhancements with IT teams and vendors, and ensures system documentation and user training are maintained to support consistent operation and continuous improvement across both locations.

(To perform within this position successfully, the incumbent must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other duties may be assigned.)

• Serve as system owner for manufacturing-related IT systems (including MES and related shop-floor applications), ensuring stable operation and continuous improvement.
• Provide IT system management coverage for both PE Richmond and BSA2 (Ellabell, GA), aligning priorities and support activities across locations.
• Gather requirements and design system solutions that align with manufacturing processes, traceability, quality, and production objectives.
• Configure and enhance MES/manufacturing systems to support workflows, data collection, interfaces, and reporting requirements.
• Lead and coordinate implementations and deployments for manufacturing systems, including testing/validation, cutover planning, and go-live support.
• Coordinate integration between MES and connected systems (e.g., ERP, SCADA, PLC/equipment automation) and resolve interface issues.
• Monitor system performance and availability; troubleshoot incidents to minimize downtime and production disruption.
• Partner with IT Infrastructure/Security and vendors to manage patches, upgrades, access controls, and security enhancements affecting manufacturing systems.
• Drive continuous improvement using manufacturing data and system capabilities (automation, cycle time reduction, workflow optimization).
• Maintain documentation for system configurations, operating procedures, and troubleshooting; provide user training and guidance.
• Coordinate and manage support resources (including operations support coverage as applicable) to ensure consistent execution and service levels.

AUTHORITY & SCOPE

This role operates within defined corporate policies and procedures and exercises judgment appropriate to its level of responsibility. The position may influence decisions related to functional operations, processes, or recommendations and escalate matters as required

• Owns day-to-day coordination for manufacturing system stability across PE Richmond and BSA2, including incident triage, troubleshooting, and escalation to internal teams/vendors.
• Has authority to configure and maintain approved MES/manufacturing system settings, workflows, master data structures, and reporting based on validated business requirements.
• Leads coordination of system integrations (MES-ERP/SCADA/PLC/equipment interfaces), including planning, testing, and cutover readiness.
• Coordinates and executes system changes (enhancements, patches, upgrades) through defined change control to protect production stability.
• Recommends and supports performance optimization actions for applications and databases to maintain reliability and responsiveness.
• Coordinate multi-site priorities, schedules, and support coverage to maintain consistent service delivery across both plants.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Yes

(The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or ability required and preferred for this position.)

Required Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in MES and/or manufacturing systems management/support in a manufacturing environment; multi-site plant support experience preferred.

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and production system requirements (traceability, quality, WIP tracking, genealogy, downtime).
• Hands-on experience supporting and improving MES and manufacturing-related systems in a production environment.
• Experience with system integrations and interfaces (ERP/SCADA/PLC/equipment automation) including troubleshooting and root-cause analysis.
• Strong SQL skills (MS-SQL) including query tuning and database performance optimization.
• Programming/technology skills: C#, .NET, and Java (or equivalent experience supporting custom manufacturing applications).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to prioritize issues and respond effectively during production impacts.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and schedules across two plants; strong coordination and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong documentation and training skills (procedures, system configurations, troubleshooting guides) to support standardization.
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Maintenance, and external vendors.

Preferred Education & Experience:

• Automotive manufacturing experience and/or experience supporting high-availability production environments.
• Experience with MES implementation projects, and equipment automation interfaces.
• Bilingual (English and Korean) is a plus.

Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:

• None (or as required by the business; certifications listed above are preferred)

Working Conditions: This position is primarily office-based and may require occasional travel or extended hours based on business needs. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals to perform essential functions.

• This position is primarily office-based with frequent presence in production/manufacturing areas. Travel and on-site support between PE Richmond and BSA2 Ellabell, GA is required based on operational needs, and the role may require flexible hours (including off-hours support) during production issues, system changes, or go-live activities.