Automation Engineer - Archdale, NC

Job Overview

We are seeking a proactive and technically skilled Automation Engineer to lead manufacturing automation initiatives that improve safety, reduce costs, and increase throughput. This role is hands-on and collaborative, involving the design, programming, and integration of PLCs, robotic systems, and custom automation equipment.

A Day In The Life

• Begin each day by reviewing production data to identify automation-related bottlenecks or inefficiencies.
• Collaborate with operators, maintenance, and engineering teams to identify and scope new automation opportunities.
• Program, test, and troubleshoot PLCs and other control systems to support process improvements and new equipment integration.
• Participate in continuous improvement (CI) and Kaizen events, contributing automation expertise to drive efficiency and quality.
• Analyze and optimize existing automated equipment programming to improve cycle time and throughput while maintaining or enhancing product quality.
• Maintain clear documentation of project progress, control logic changes, and system updates; communicate regularly with stakeholders.
• Provide hands-on support for troubleshooting automation systems and offer technical guidance to production and maintenance teams.
• Collaborate with engineering and maintenance teams to implement, test, qualify, and troubleshoot new and existing automation systems.
• Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC systems (Allen-Bradley, Automation Direct).
• Create and manage capital project proposals, budgets, and implementation plans.
• Support equipment commissioning, validation, and operator training.
• Maintain and update technical documentation, schematics, and SOPs.
• Lead and execute cost reduction and process improvement projects through automation.
• Participate in cross-functional continuous improvement events such as Kaizen and Lean events.
• Support maintenance with identifying (current or obsolete), specifying, sourcing, and implementing automation components to be used as replacements or process improvements.
• Analyze production data to identify automation opportunities and track ROI.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards.

What will help you thrive in this role?

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or touch objects, tools, or controls; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, and reach above shoulders. The employee must occasionally lift and / or move drawings, files, parts, components, and manuals weighing up to 30 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Additional Preferred Experience

Preferred Qualifications

Hubbell Incorporated

Hubbell creates critical infrastructure solutions that power our customers, communities, people and the planet. Our company is strategically aligned around enabling grid modernization and electrification. As more products plug in to an aging grid, Hubbell solutions enable the transition to a more reliable, resilient and efficient energy infrastructure. Founded in 1888 our innovation has made us a leading global manufacturer of high quality electrical and utility solutions enabling customers to operate critical infrastructure reliably and efficiently.

The company operates in two segments. Hubbell Utility Solutions (HUS) enable the grid to conduct, communicate and control energy across utility applications and Hubbell Electrical Solutions (HES) are essential to managing power across a wide range of industries and applications. Our vertical market solutions can be applied to markets including Data Centers, Renewables, Commercial Buildings, Industrial, Telecom and Transportation. Supporting both of our business segments is our corporate and Hubbell Unified Business Solutions teams that provide consistent process, tools technologies across our businesses.

We are committed to operating sustainably and ethically while promoting an inclusive and supportive culture for our people to grow and develop in their careers. Our employees proudly work and serve our communities from our headquarters in Shelton, CT, across the United States and around the globe.

Hubbell Electrical Solutions

Hubbell Electrical Solutions (HES) are essential to managing power across a wide range of industries and applications. HES provides the critical components that allow operators of buildings, factories and other industrial infrastructure to connect, protect, wire and manage power.

Hubbell Incorporated, its subsidiaries and affiliates, is an EO Employer AA : M / F / Veteran / Disability. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other protected class.

The above summary of position responsibilities and requirements is not intended, and should not be construed, to be an exhaustive list of duties, skills, efforts, physical requirements, or working conditions associated with the position. It is intended to be an accurate reflection of those principal position elements essential for making decisions related to position performance, employee development, and compensation.