Sr. Automation Engineer - Chemical Processes
Come join the skilled team at Sensient Technologies. We are collaborative and hard working. We solve tough problems. And we will be better with you.
We are seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to join our team and play a key role in supporting and improving our facility’s automation and electrical systems. In this position, you will be responsible for controls programming, process development and optimization, power system design, electrical drawings and schematics, project engineering, and equipment troubleshooting. You will collaborate closely with process engineers, internal electricians, and external contractors to support projects and maintain reliable operations. This role will also involve regular time on the facility floor, providing hands-on support while developing a thorough understanding of the site’s infrastructure, processes, equipment, and layout. The Automation Engineer will work cross-functionally and report directly to the appropriate team leadership.
What you’ll do:
- Develop, program, maintain, and troubleshoot PLC and HMI systems.
- Design, update, and maintain electrical schematics, diagrams, and documentation.
- Support AC/DC motors, power distribution, and site electrical infrastructure.
- Partner with Maintenance and Engineering on controls modernization, equipment migrations, and project execution.
- Troubleshoot electrical, electronic, controls, and robotic systems, including root cause analysis and corrective actions.
- Research and implement new technologies to modernize and improve industrial electrical, controls, and robotic systems.
- Maintain Arc-Flash models and ensure systems and projects align with applicable NEC, IEEE, and NEMA standards.
What you’ll Bring
- Proven experience in electrical engineering within manufacturing or industrial processing environments, with a strong understanding of NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code) requirements.
- Demonstrated experience with Siemens and/or Allen-Bradley PLCs, including programming, troubleshooting, and integration with industrial automation and control systems.
- Hands-on experience with chemical processing operations, preferably within the food & beverage, pharmaceutical, specialty chemical, or related process industries.
- Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems, process controls, instrumentation, and automation in a manufacturing environment.
- Proven project leadership and project management experience, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, contractors, vendors, and plant operations.
- Bachelor's degree (B.S. or higher) in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline from an accredited institution.
- Fluent English communication skills are required, with the ability to effectively communicate technical information both verbally and in writing.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex electrical, controls, and process-related issues in an operating manufacturing environment.
What you'll get:
- The opportunity to join a rapidly growing division within a global organization
- A complex and fast-paced environment that offers an ability to make a direct impact.
- A collaborative work environment, with the opportunity to work directly onsite.
- A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- Comprehensive training during onboarding and continued support throughout your role.
About Sensient: Sensient Technologies Corporation is a leading global manufacturer and marketer of colors, flavors, and extracts. Sensient employs advanced technologies at facilities around the world to develop specialty food and beverage systems, cosmetic and pharmaceutical systems, specialty colors, and other specialty and fine chemicals. The Company's customers include major international manufacturers representing most of the world's best-known brands.
About Sensient Colors: Sensient Colors is a leading developer, producer, and supplier of natural and synthetic color systems for customers around the globe. The Company's high-performance products play a vital role in the manufacture of foods and beverages, cosmetic and pharmaceutical colors and coatings, and colors for agricultural uses, household cleaners and paper products.
Sensient is an Equal Opportunity Employer, headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
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our stories We work together in person to put the needs of our customers first and get results. Be different. Be Sensient. -
who we are We’re on a mission across the globe to unlock the potential of our customers’ food, pharmaceutical, and personal care products. -
faq You have questions? here are our answers to the most frequently asked questions people have about a career with Sensient. -
the Americas We offer multiple locations across the United States, Latin America, and Canada. Choose the one you’re most interested in to learn more about it and see available roles. -
APAC region We offer multiple locations across the Asia-Pacific region. Choose the one you’re most interested in to learn more about it and see available roles. -
EMEA region We offer multiple locations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Choose the one you’re most interested in to learn more about it and see available roles. -
global locations At Sensient, we believe in the power of collaborating face-to-face, in person. With locations around the world, we offer plenty of opportunities to build the career that best suits you. Learn more about our global locations. -
what we do We develop and manufacture flavors, colors, and extracts that bring our customers’ products to life. Our products positively impact the daily experience of millions. -
sustainability Sustainability is central to our mission at Sensient. Everyone here is dedicated to working together to bring sustainable innovations to the world. This includes vegan flavors, low-carbon products, natural and organic ingredients, and so much more. -
key hiring areas at Sensient Technologies Many paths to success. With a variety of categories and locations, it’s important to find the role that fits you best. -
learning & development We offer a variety of unmatched opportunities for training designed to help you develop your skills. Each program is tailored to specific areas of focus and intended to bring out your best while setting you up for a long, exciting, and fruitful career at Sensient. Take control of your future and learn more about our development programs. -
tips for your application Interested in applying to join us, but not sure how to begin? We’ve compiled a list of tips and advice from some current employees to help you get started. -
careers in research & development Where innovation is born and applied. If you’re an analytic thinker, scientific researcher, and driven winner, our Research and Development (R&D) department is where you can take control of your career. -
coaching at Sensient Having a strong coaching culture is a top priority for Sensient. We are committed to helping our employees grow and develop in their roles to meet their future career goals. -
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sales careers Are you ambitious with a competitive spirit? Do you want to be rewarded for your hard work and results? Does your professional success matter to you? If so, join Sensient’s elite sales team. -
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working at juneau Discover what makes working at the Juneau, WI facility unique! With a rich history, and a close-knit team of under 100 employees, this location offers a collaborative work environment where personal connections thrive. -
working in st. louis Discover what it's like working at our Colors Headquarters! With a dynamic work environment, you’ll have opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute with a focus on innovation and career development. -
Why Sensient? -
your future starts at Sensient Unleash the power of bold flavors and bright colors and experience the thrill of developing products that are essential to hundreds of millions of users. Learn more about who we are and how our teams work together to create innovative solutions. -
careers in research & development Explore careers in Research & Development at Sensient. Work on science‑driven innovation, global impact, and sustainable solutions across industries. -
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career changers: build a sales career at Sensient For driven professionals ready to turn expertise into sales success at Sensient. -
career growth at Sensient Unlock your potential with Sensient's growth programs. Bring your grit, and we'll teach you the rest. Explore opportunities in research, sales, manufacturing, and more. -
early days at Sensient Success starts here. Explore Sensient’s world-class onboarding experience built to help you feel welcomed, prepared, and supported from your first day onward. -
our business goal at Sensient Discover how Sensient’s technology, scale, and people power innovation across food, beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial applications—shaping products used every day around the world. -
discover Sensient's culture: innovation, collaboration, and growth Explore the culture at Sensient, where innovation, collaboration, and customer focus drive success. Learn how employees grow their careers, take ownership, and thrive through continuous learning. -
sales training programs: fast-track your career with Sensient Learn about Sensient's Sales Rep Trainee Program and Inside Sales Representative roles. Gain hands-on training, mentorship, career growth opportunities, and the skills to build a successful sales career.