Automation Controls Engineer

We make pet food taste great! For over 30 years, AFB International has been providing pet food solutions that enrich the lives of pets and their people.  Our palatants are specially designed to make pet foods, treats and supplements taste better, ensuring pets receive the vital nutrients they need. We know wagging tails, licking whiskers and empty bowls equal happy pets and happy pet parents. Join AFB and you'll be a part of a team of highly skilled professionals that provide the greatest contribution to our success as an organization. Our team members are diverse, creative, passionate experts who are genuinely dedicated to our mission, our customers, and the pets we serve worldwide. ​

Job Description

AFB International, a recognized leader in the pet food industry, has been enhancing the lives of pets and their owners for over 30 years. Our specialized palatants improve the flavor and nutritional value of pet foods, treats, and supplements, ensuring pets receive the essential nutrients they need. As part of Ensign-Bickford Industries, Inc. (EBI), a privately-owned high-technology conglomerate, AFB International operates across multiple global locations, including the United States (global headquarters), Europe, Latin America, Mexico, Australia, and China.

As an Automation Controls Engineer, you’ll be responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting cutting-edge automation and control solutions in a manufacturing environment. You’ll be at the forefront of AFB’s digital and automation transformation—applying your expertise to enhance reliability, efficiency, and process performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Program, modify, and troubleshoot Allen Bradley / Rockwell PLCs (Studio 5000, RSLogix 5000, 500, 5)
• Lead commissioning of automation control systems and projects
• Develop SCADA/HMI solutions.
• Apply advanced ladder logic and phase logic for batch process control
• Configure, install, and maintain automation software & hardware
• Support OT infrastructure following Purdue Model and industrial networking best practices
• Manage capital projects—scoping, budgeting, scheduling, and execution
• Ensure cGMP compliance and process documentation
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive process improvement

Qualifications

Required:

• Expertise in Allen Bradley / Rockwell PLCs and related software
• Strong grasp of ladder logic, control system design, and troubleshooting
• SCADA/HMI experience (preferably AVEVA / Wonderware / InBatch and/or Ignition)
• Deep understanding of industrial controls, electrical systems, and instrumentation
• Experience commissioning network-based OT systems
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or related field preferred

Preferred:

• Background in food, flavoring, or pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Experience in liquid/dry blending and spray drying processes
• Familiarity with cGMP environments and automated batch processing

Why Join AFB International?

• High-Growth Global Company in a resilient, non-cyclical industry
• Ongoing Capital Investment – including new blend lines and future R&D initiatives
• Privately Held, Professionally Managed organization with long-term stability
• Set the Vision – Shape the site’s controls & automation roadmap
• Implement New Tools & Capabilities to advance site performance and AFB operations
• Career Development – We believe in investing in our people

Make a Difference with Us

Be a part of a company that combines high-tech innovation with a passion for pet nutrition. If you're ready to shape the future of automation in a global organization that values long-term vision and team development—we want to hear from you.

AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.