Automation Engineer – Deckorators (Buffalo, NY) at UFP Industries

Buffalo, New York, United States

UFP Industries Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Mid-level (3 to 4 years), Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Manufacturing, Polymer, Composite DeckingIndustries

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, Controls, or Computer Engineering (or related field)
  • 5–10 years of experience in automation, controls engineering, or process optimization within manufacturing; extrusion or polymer experience preferred
  • Proven ability to design, program, and troubleshoot Rockwell FactoryTalk View ME & SE systems and Allen-Bradley PLCs (MicroLogix, CompactLogix, ControlLogix)
  • Ability to validate and condition PLC/MES data to support process analysis and improvement
  • Experience deploying MES or plant-level integration platforms such as Ignition; ERP interfacing preferred
  • Working knowledge of Python, Java, or other programming languages a strong plus
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing data systems, sensors, and connectivity (OPC, SQL, Ethernet/IP)
  • Strong electrical and mechanical troubleshooting skills
  • Knowledge of VFDs, servos, and common system interfaces (CIP, Fieldbus)
  • Proficiency in managing multiple automation projects from concept through commissioning
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
  • Highly organized with demonstrated project management capability and attention to detail
  • 5–10 years of control system programming experience across multiple platforms (Allen-Bradley, Red Lion, Siemens, Schneider)
  • 5–10 years of HMI/SCADA design experience (Ignition Perspective, FactoryTalk View, Crimson)
  • Knowledge of common industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, ControlNet)

Responsibilities

  • Design, implement, and support Industry 4.0 initiatives, including data acquisition and system integration
  • Develop, test, and deploy Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Digital Quality Systems (QMS), and other digital tools to enhance visibility and control on the production floor
  • Design, develop, document, program, debug, and maintain automation PLC/HMI/SCADA/MES software
  • Lead or support automation projects involving extrusion line instrumentation and automated material handling systems
  • Integrate process equipment with plant-wide systems to enable real-time performance tracking and predictive maintenance
  • Partner with process and quality engineers to develop and deploy AI-driven and machine learning solutions for quality improvement and process optimization
  • Manage all project phases: Needs Definition, Design/Build, and Installation/Startup, ensuring proper documentation and hand-off
  • Support troubleshooting, upgrades, and optimization of existing automation systems to minimize downtime and improve OEE
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure automation systems meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost targets
  • Provide technical guidance and training to maintenance and operations personnel
  • Stay current on emerging technologies and recommend future automation opportunities to maintain plant competitiveness

Skills

PLC
HMI
SCADA
MES
Industry 4.0
data acquisition
system integration
extrusion automation
material handling systems
predictive maintenance
AI
machine learning
Manufacturing Execution Systems
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition

UFP Industries

Manufactures and distributes construction and packaging products

About UFP Industries

UFP Industries operates as a diversified holding company with several subsidiaries, including UFP Packaging, UFP Construction, and UFP Retail Solutions. The company manufactures, distributes, and sells a wide range of products for various markets, including residential and commercial construction, packaging, and industrial sectors. Its products are tailored to meet the specific needs of clients across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. UFP Industries stands out from its competitors by leveraging its extensive operational footprint and expertise to serve a diverse clientele, ensuring consistent revenue from multiple geographic regions and industry segments. The company's goal is to effectively meet the diverse needs of its customers while maintaining a steady income stream.

Muscle Shoals, AlabamaHeadquarters
1955Year Founded
IPOCompany Stage
Industrial & Manufacturing, Consumer GoodsIndustries
1,001-5,000Employees

Risks

Rising lumber costs could impact UFP's profit margins.
Construction slowdown due to high interest rates may reduce UFP's revenue.
Stricter European environmental regulations could increase UFP's compliance costs.

Differentiation

UFP Industries operates globally, serving diverse sectors like construction and packaging.
The company leverages a broad operational footprint to meet varied client needs.
Recent acquisitions, like C&L Wood Products, expand UFP's market reach and capabilities.

Upsides

Growing demand for sustainable packaging boosts UFP's eco-friendly product development.
E-commerce growth increases demand for UFP's packaging solutions.
Urbanization trends drive demand for UFP's residential and commercial construction products.

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