Automation Engineer - Controls & Automation
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 16, 2026. First seen by Alion on Aug 13, 2026. Ecolab scores B on the Alion truth index.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
CoolIT Systems is looking for an experienced Automation Engineer, Manufacturing to join our Calgary Manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, programming, integrating, commissioning, and continuously improving automated manufacturing and product testing systems that support our growing production operations.
The ideal candidate brings strong hands-on experience with PLCs, HMIs, servo-motion systems, industrial or collaborative robots, and machine control technologies. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will lead automation projects from concept and system design through programming, integration, commissioning, documentation, operator training, and final production hand-off. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, optimizing manufacturing processes, and driving continuous improvement through automation.
Responsibilities
Design, develop, and implement automation solutions that transform manual and semi-automated manufacturing processes into fully integrated assembly and product testing systems.
Develop controls architecture, functional requirements, machine sequences, I/O layouts, network architecture, and equipment integration strategies.
Program, troubleshoot, and commission PLCs, HMIs, servo-motion systems, industrial and collaborative robots, and machine controls.
Integrate automation components including PLCs, robots, vision systems, sensors, safety systems, pneumatics, test equipment, and industrial communication networks.
Lead automation projects from concept and design through programming, testing, installation, commissioning, validation, production ramp-up, and final hand-off.
Prepare technical documentation including project proposals, specifications, cost estimates, schedules, execution plans, SOPs, operating manuals, work instructions, and preventive maintenance procedures.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design machine layouts, tooling, fixtures, guarding, sensor placement, and equipment accessibility while ensuring manufacturability and reliability.
Train engineers, technicians, and operators on equipment operation, robot programming, troubleshooting, and safe operating practices.
Provide ongoing production support by troubleshooting complex automation and controls issues while driving equipment reliability and performance.
Apply Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement principles to enhance throughput, product quality, safety, equipment reliability, cycle time, and operational efficiency.
Ensure all automated equipment meets safety, quality, documentation, maintainability, and operator usability requirements before production release.
WHO YOU ARE:
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechatronics, Automation, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- Strong experience developing, troubleshooting, and commissioning PLC programs and HMI applications.
- Experience programming, integrating, teaching, and commissioning industrial or collaborative robots.
- Experience configuring, programming, tuning, and troubleshooting servo drives, servo motors, and motion-control systems.
- Demonstrated experience delivering automated machinery from requirements and design through programming, commissioning, documentation, training, and final production hand-off.
- Experience integrating PLCs, HMIs, robots, motion systems, safety devices, industrial networks, sensors, pneumatics, and test equipment.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, machine drawings, I/O lists, network diagrams, and control panel documentation.
- Must be legally authorized to work in Canada without employer sponsorship.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Working knowledge of IPC-A-610, ISO 9001, and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Experience with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.
- Experience with SCADA, LabVIEW, embedded systems, Python, C/C++, SQL, or manufacturing data systems.
- Experience working with Universal Robots, EPSON, FANUC, ABB, Yaskawa, or similar robotics platforms.
- Experience creating machine SOPs, operating manuals, troubleshooting guides, and training documentation.
Skills:
- Strong understanding of machine sequencing, operating modes, interlocks, alarms, diagnostics, industrial communications, and fault-recovery routines.
- Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex automation issues.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across engineering, manufacturing, and operations teams.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet project timelines, and develop practical solutions within budget and schedule constraints.
- Strong computer skills and the ability to interpret technical data to support continuous improvement initiatives.
WHY COOLIT, AN ECOLAB COMPANY?
We strive to be an employer of choice and as such we believe in rewarding our employees with career and development opportunities that will maintain and strengthen our culture while aligning to our vision and values.
We are a company that is full of vibrant, innovative people who love what we do. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:
- Vacation and flex days, and paid company-wide shutdown during the holiday season.
- Comprehensive benefits including Dental, Drugs, Optical, Paramedical and Health Spending. These costs are covered by CoolIT and are enacted from your first day.
- Dress for your day - in a casual yet professional environment.
- Retention rewards like “The Big Coffee Break” that reward tenure with additional vacation time and a monetary bonus.
- Company-funded RRSP contributions to support your long-term financial goals.
We thank every candidate in advance, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo background checks including criminal records check and education.
About CoolIT Systems Inc.
Founded in Calgary, Alberta in 2001, CoolIT Systems is the leading Direct Liquid Cooling technology provider for data centers, supercomputers, and desktop computers. We design and manufacture solutions used by the largest tech companies globally.
Recognized as one of “The Americas’ Fastest Growing Companies 2023” by Financial Times and honored with the Deloitte Fast 50 Clean Technology award in 2022, as well as the Deloitte Fast 500 distinction in both 2021 and 2022, CoolIT's rapid growth is capturing global attention.
As demand for generative AI, high performance computing and cloud solutions rapidly expands, there has never been a more exciting time to join our team.