Automation Engineer
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 22, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 2, 2026. Smithfield Foods scores A on the Alion truth index.
If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.
Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special - a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!
Your Opportunity
The Automation Engineer works on automation projects, both as a team member and team leader, interacting with business partners to understand and develop automation requirements and transform them into effective software solutions using software engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria. The Automation Engineer leverages a combination of experience in process control and monitoring, MES, SCADA, and motion control systems to apply theories and principles of science and mathematics to design and develop technical projects for the pork industry and will perform engineering assignments over a wide range of projects of varying complexity.
Core Responsibilities
Develops preliminary engineering designs, and device specifications.
Conducts feasibility studies and develops project cost estimates.
Determines design criteria in accordance with required standards and codes for assigned projects.
Performs field work and adapts collections to translate completed projects into as-built drawings.
Collaborates with key operations and maintenance personnel to develop design specifications.
Develops user/operator interfaces, custom reports, and analytical tools, process automation, utility control programs and application code.
Develops control applications within Ignition, and Factory Talk View.
Develops and designs GUI, and HMI graphics, applications and database architecture.
Coordinates and provides direction to equipment vendors to plan layouts, meet utilities requirements and maintain installation schedules.
Provides startup support and training.
Develops user/operator interfaces, custom reports, and analytical tools.
Develops process control programs and application code.
Designs database architecture. Reports and Proposals
Conducts engineering planning, design and operational studies in pre-project studies.
Conducts audits on project performance and sustainability initiatives.
Assists plant personnel in troubleshooting and downtime situations.
Conducts analysis on downtime risk prevention.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university and 2+ years’ relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
Bilingual proficiency in English and Mandarin, preferred.
Proficient in PLC/PAC programming languages.
Experience with Ignition and Factory Talk View platforms, preferred
Knowledge of vision systems and programming
Proficient in operator interface development using Ignition, Java, or Rockwell Software.
Knowledge of computer programming languages (Python, Java, VB).
Knowledge of database architecture and structured query language.
Must possess strong knowledge of process controls, motor controls, instrumentation, automation principals, and industrial networking.
Knowledge of engineering principles and techniques related to food processing and the meat industry, preferred.
Ability to apply sound engineering principles to operational and design issues.
Knowledge of installation and construction project scheduling. - Must possess Project Management skills; Contract Administration skills; National codes and standards interpretation skills. Previous experience in the management of multi-million dollar projects with large scopes, preferred.
Proficient in AutoCAD drawing skills.
Proficient in Microsoft Excel spreadsheet software and Word processing software, other Microsoft Suite products.
Excellent written and oral communication skills, organizational planning, teamwork, analytical reasoning and adaptability.
Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.
Must be able to travel up to 50% of the time.
Supervisory Responsibilities
This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities but may act as a lead by providing training and guidance to others.
Work Environment & Physical Demands
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The plant environment will include wet or humid conditions (non-weather related), extreme cold and heat (non-weather related), working near moving mechanical parts, exposure to fumes or airborne particles, and chemicals.
EEO Information
Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.
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