Automation Engineer

Position: Automation EngineerLocation: Factory – Saudi Arabia (Sudair)Job Type: Full-timeReporting to: Maintenance ManagerJob SummaryTo support the Maintenance and Engineering teams in maintaining troubleshooting and improving industrial automation systems and production equipment. The Automation Engineer will develop practical experience in PLC, HMI, VFD, sensors, instrumentation, electrical control systems, and industrial networks, while supporting preventive maintenance and continuous improvement activities.Key ResponsibilitiesSupport troubleshooting of PLC, HMI, VFD, servo drives, sensors, and control systems.Assist senior engineers and technicians during machine breakdowns and corrective maintenance.Support preventive maintenance activities for automation and control equipment.Assist with PLC and HMI program backups, documentation, and version control.Monitor and maintain automation-related parameters and machine settings.Support troubleshooting communication issues between PLCs, HMIs, drives, and field devices.Assist in identifying recurring automation failures and participate in Root Cause Analysis (RCA).Support machine commissioning, testing, and modification activities.Assist with automation improvement projects aimed at improving OEE, reliability, and machine performance.Maintain updated records of PLC/HMI programs, electrical drawings, parameters, and technical documentation.Support interaction with OEMs and external suppliers during technical troubleshooting.Participate in machine inspections and identify potential automation-related improvement opportunities.Follow all LOTO, electrical safety, and factory safety procedures.Provide technical support to maintenance technicians when required.Learn and apply the factory's CMMS/EAM system for maintenance activities and equipment history.Technical Areas to DevelopThe engineer will be expected to develop competency in:PLC programming and troubleshootingHMI systemsVFDs and servo drivesIndustrial sensors and instrumentationPneumatic control systemsElectrical control panelsIndustrial communication networksSCADA systemsMachine safety systemsPLC/HMI software backup and restorationBasic electrical drawings and control schematicsCMMS/EAM systemsPreferred PLC PlatformsKnowledge of any of the following is an advantage:SiemensAllen-Bradley / RockwellSchneiderRequired SkillsBasic understanding of PLC and automation principles.Basic knowledge of electrical circuits and control systems.Ability to read electrical/control diagrams.Basic troubleshooting and analytical skills.Good understanding of sensors, motors, VFDs, and industrial equipment.Good computer skills.Good communication and teamwork skills.Willingness to work in a manufacturing environment and support breakdowns when required.Strong interest in learning industrial automation and maintenance.Behavioral CompetenciesProblem-solving mindsetContinuous learningTeamwork and collaborationAttention to detailSafety awarenessAccountabilityCommunication skillsAbility to work under pressureProactive approachFirst-Year Development ObjectivesDuring the first year, the engineer should progressively become able to:Troubleshoot basic PLC/HMI faults independently.Perform PLC/HMI backups and maintain software records.Troubleshoot basic VFD and sensor-related failures.Read and understand electrical control drawings.Support machine commissioning and modification activities.Participate in RCA for recurring automation failures.Understand the factory's major production and packaging lines.Use the CMMS/EAM system correctly.Develop basic PLC/HMI programming skills.Support automation improvement projects that contribute to downtime reduction and OEE improvement.Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Automation-related breakdown response timeCompletion of PLC/HMI backup activitiesPreventive maintenance complianceNumber of recurring automation/system failures reducedAutomation improvement projects completedReduction in automation-related downtimeCMMS/EAM data accuracyCompletion of assigned training and competency developmentRequired QualificationsDiploma or bachelor's degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Control Engineering, or a related field.Fresh graduate or 2 years of experience in industrial environments.Internship experience in manufacturing, automation, electrical systems, or maintenance is preferred.