Overview
Skills
Job Details
Job Description
Job Title: Senior Automation Specialist
Location: Cambridge, Ontario, Canada
Reports to: Engineering Lead
Company Overview:
We provide a broad range of engineering services including:
- Electrical Engineering
- Controls Design & Drafting
- PLC/HMI Programming
- Robot Programming
- Site Startup and Commissioning Support
- Project Management
- Maintenance Training & Operator Manuals
- Pre-Start Health & Safety Reviews
Position Summary:
As a Senior Automation Specialist, you will be accountable to the Engineering Lead for all technical aspects of project execution. You will operate both independently and collaboratively depending on project scope and phase. Experience with Siemens automation systems is required, including PLC, HMI, drive systems, and related programming environments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Health & Safety
- Comply with PGI Safety Policies and all OHSA regulations.
- Promote and uphold safe working practices.
- Coordinate with Division Managers and the PGI Health & Safety Officer to ensure readiness and training for site work.
- Business Development
- Support Account Managers in technical presentations and client meetings.
- Identify new opportunities across PGI business units and report potential leads to management.
- Operations
- Participate in mechanical/electrical design, programming, and commissioning.
- Implement execution efficiencies and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Manage small-scale projects, monitor resources and timelines.
- Track project deliverables, costs, scope, and change orders.
- Prepare purchase requisitions per company standards.
- Understand and adhere to industry-specific practices and standards (e.g., GMP, GAMP, safety regulations).
- Travel domestically and internationally as required.
- Provide after-hours and weekend support as needed.
- Technical Execution
- Mechanical Design:
Robotic cell layouts, reach studies, part handling, machined components, hydraulics/pneumatics, BOMs.
- Electrical Design:
Power and circuit sizing, fusing, panel layouts, automation architecture, communication networks, cable schedules.
- Programming:
- Design and debug PLC, PAC, and HMI systems using both customer templates and custom logic.
- Strong expertise required with Siemens PLCs and HMIs (TIA Portal, Step 7, WinCC, etc.)
- Experience with other platforms (Allen-Bradley, Omron, etc.) is an asset.
- Robotic Systems:
Configure and program pick-and-place units and multi-axis robots, including calibration and testing.
- Motion Control Systems:
Set up and commission servo motors, VFDs, soft starters, and across-the-line starters.
- Commissioning:
Conduct thorough onsite system testing, debug circuits, and assist in issue resolution.
Provide remote and onsite technical support post-deployment.
- Financial Planning
- Participate in project budget reviews and sales planning discussions to align with company goals and resource planning.
- Human Resources
- Adhere to company policies.
- Contribute to your own professional development and the collective growth of the PSI team.
Performance Indicators:
- Self-directed execution and task management.
- Prioritization and multi-tasking ability.
- Completion of assignments with technical and commercial accuracy.
- Effective coordination with internal teams and shop personnel.
- Safety compliance and high-quality work (minimal to no call-backs).
- Positive customer feedback and repeat business opportunities.
Skills & Qualifications:
- Post-secondary diploma in Engineering, Automation, Robotics, or a related field.
- Strong proficiency with Siemens automation platforms is essential (e.g., TIA Portal, S7, WinCC).
- Familiarity with electrical drawing review and standard industrial programming practices.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office and computerized reporting tools.
- Highly organized with a strong attention to detail.
- Resilient under pressure and able to maintain professionalism across stakeholders.
- Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude, including cross-disciplinary troubleshooting.
- Capable of working with various hardware vendors.
- Effective communicator and team collaborator.
- Ability to mentor junior staff and provide constructive feedback.
- Willingness to travel as needed (primarily within 4 hours of HQ, with some international assignments possible).
Requirements
Skills & Qualifications:
- Post-secondary diploma in Engineering, Automation, Robotics, or a related field.
- Strong proficiency with Siemens automation platforms is essential (e.g., TIA Portal, S7, WinCC).
- Familiarity with electrical drawing review and standard industrial programming practices.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office and computerized reporting tools.
- Highly organized with a strong attention to detail.
- Resilient under pressure and able to maintain professionalism across stakeholders.
- Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude, including cross-disciplinary troubleshooting.
- Capable of working with various hardware vendors.
- Effective communicator and team collaborator.
- Ability to mentor junior staff and provide constructive feedback.
- Willingness to travel as needed (primarily within 4 hours of HQ, with some international assignments possible).