Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer   Location: Gilbert, AZ, USA  About Us:  Silent-Aire, a division of Johnson Controls, is a global leader in owner equipment manufacturing (OEM) dedicated to providing custom solutions for data center customers. Our product line includes large-scale equipment such as air handling units and modular data centers. We pride ourselves on innovation, quality, and delivering tailored solutions to meet our clients' unique needs.

Overview:  Support the execution of automation and controls initiatives at Gilbert, AZ to advance Industry 4.0 objectives. Oversee day-to-day automation and manufacturing system operations, ensuring equipment uptime, efficient data collection, and successful deployment of automation upgrades. Work closely with the Automation & Controls Project Lead, Automation and Controls Specialist, Operational Excellence teams, Plant Engineering, and cross-functional partners to implement improvements on schedule and within budget. Provide on-the-floor technical support, troubleshooting, and hands-on execution of automation solutions.  How you will do it  Execute daily automation and controls activities to support production operations  Implement equipment upgrades, system modifications, and data collection solutions based on site roadmap priorities  Lead integration of machinery into plantwide systems and networks  Design of connected systems, data acquisition tools, and real-time monitoring solutions  Spec out and deployment of autonomous robotics systems for material handling, welding, brazing, assembly, painting, and wrapping operations  Support creation and maintenance of digital twins and simulations for layout optimization, equipment planning, and productivity analysis  Drive the execution of data collection initiatives, ensuring accurate and reliable operational data  Perform basic data analysis to identify trends and improvement opportunities  Contribute to the development and sharing of real-time dashboards (Power BI or similar) for KPIs, production status, and equipment performance  Assist with testing and implementing additive manufacturing technologies where applicable  Implement augmented reality solutions to improve assembly and quality processes  Support pilot deployments of AI enabled manufacturing optimization, digital work instructions, and predictive maintenance  Support structured problem solving using DMAIC or similar Lean methodologies  Participate in continuous improvement efforts, kaizen events, and cross-functional technical projects  Document standard work, update system documentation, and maintain accurate control system records  Work closely with Operations and Engineering teams to align daily actions with the technology deployment roadmap  Collaborate with maintenance, production, and quality teams to ensure cohesive execution of automation activities  Actively contribute to an inclusive and safety focused culture  Other duties as assigned.  What we look for:  Required  Bachelor’s degree in Engineering  At least three years of experience in automation, controls, industrial systems, or manufacturing engineering  Experience with PLCs, robotics, HMIs, control networks, vision systems, industrial sensors, and relevant software  Strong troubleshooting skills and a mindset capable of driving tasks to completion  Familiarity with Lean principles, structured problem-solving (e.g., DMAIC), and data driven decision making  Ability to interpret electrical schematics, machine documentation, and technical drawings  Good communication and interpersonal skills; able to collaborate across all levels of the facility  Comfortable working independently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment  Preferred  Experience with digital manufacturing systems, Industry 4.0 technologies, or smart factory initiatives  Exposure to simulation tools, digital twins, or advanced analytics platforms  Experience with Power BI or similar data visualization