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Maintenance Automation Engineer

Hazelwood, Missouri, United States

We are Nature’s Bakery, one of the fastest growing snack brands in the category and have recently joined KIND, a healthy snacking leader, and the Mars family of companies, to accelerate the growth of our healthier snacking platform. We have a bright future ahead of us. Come bake with us and create a world of snacking that is both good, and good for you.

SUMMARY 

The Maintenance Automation Engineer is responsible for the upkeep, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated systems and machinery in a production or industrial environment. This role focuses on maintaining operational efficiency and reliability while ensuring compliance with safety standards. The engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams to support continuous improvement and resolve automation-related issues.

Key Responsibilities

  1. System Maintenance and Troubleshooting
  • Perform routine inspections and maintenance of automation systems, including PLCs, SCADA, HMI, robotics, and sensors.
  • Diagnose and resolve malfunctions in automated systems to minimize downtime.
  • Update, back up, and restore control system programs and configurations.
  1. Preventive and Predictive Maintenance
  • Develop and implement maintenance schedules for automation equipment.
  • Use predictive maintenance tools (e.g., vibration analysis, thermal imaging) to identify potential issues.
  1. Optimization and Upgrades
  • Analyze automation processes to identify areas for efficiency and reliability improvements.
  • Implement system upgrades, including hardware and software changes, to enhance performance.
  • Recommend and integrate new technologies to optimize production.
  1. Safety and Compliance
  • Ensure all automation systems adhere to safety regulations and standards (e.g., OSHA, IEC, NFPA).
  • Enforce Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures and other safety protocols during maintenance activities.
  1. Documentation and Reporting
  • Maintain detailed documentation of maintenance activities, program changes, and system configurations.
  • Prepare reports on system performance, downtime, and recommendations for improvement.
  1. Collaboration and Training
  • Work closely with production teams, mechanical and electrical engineers, and external vendors to resolve complex automation issues.
  • Train maintenance personnel on the operation and troubleshooting of automated systems.

Key Skills and Competencies

  • Proficiency in programming and troubleshooting PLCs (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider).
  • Strong understanding of HMI, SCADA, and industrial networking protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profinet).
  • Knowledge of robotic systems, vision systems, and industrial drives (e.g., VFDs, servos).
  • Familiarity with control panel design, wiring, and electrical schematics.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience: 3+ years in automation maintenance or engineering within an industrial setting.
  • Certifications (preferred): Siemens TIA Certification, Rockwell Automation Certification, or equivalent.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work in industrial environments with exposure to heat, noise, and confined spaces.
  • Capability to lift up to [weight, e.g., 50 lbs] and perform physical tasks, such as climbing ladders or working in awkward positions.

What it’s like at Nature’s Bakery 

  •  Safety is a top priority for us. We provide protective gear and training to ensure a safe work environment. 
  •  You’ll work around moving machines – mixers, conveyor belts, and forklifts.
  •  Some activities may require standing in one place for long periods, lifting up to 40 lbs, walking around, or climbing stairs.
  •  We are climate controlled. When the weather outside is undesirable, the temperature inside our facility is controlled, so you stay safe and comfortable.
  • Dress code. Relaxed, with a few rules to follow for safety. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are required.
  • Career growth. Most of our current Operations managers, supervisors and leads have risen through the ranks and been promoted from within. 

The Good Stuff – Benefits
Our team members' physical and mental health is important to a thriving workplace. That’s why we offer the following benefits to full-time employees:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance offered for eligible employees
  • 401(k) plan with a company match that vest on day 1 of eligibility
  • Paid vacation
  • Paid time off 
  • Holiday pay (11 days)
  • Paid short-term disability
  • Paid life insurance
  • Banfield Pet Insurance Discounts
  • Wellness Benefits and Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program 

 

EEO

We are committed to an inclusive workplace where diversity in all its forms is championed. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and we are an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. If you require special accommodation, please let us know. 

 

Privacy Policy

Mars and its family of brands is committed to transparency and responsibility in how we handle the personal data entrusted to us by our customers and consumers. To learn more about our privacy policy please follow this link.

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