Senior Automation & Controls Engineer - Food & Beverage (Kansas City)

RiverPoint Group

  • Kansas City, MO
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 day ago
Senior Automation & Controls Engineer – Food & BeverageLocation: Kansas City, MOEmployment Type: Permanent, Full-TimeTravel: Up to 25% DomesticBenefits: Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and professional development support. This role offers long-term stability, leadership opportunities, and clear paths for career growth in a collaborative, innovation-driven environment.About the Role:We are seeking a Senior Automation & Controls Engineer to lead and support complex automation projects in the food & beverage manufacturing sector. This position is ideal for a seasoned engineer who thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys working across disciplines to deliver high-impact solutions.Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead the design and implementation of automation systems for food & beverage facilities
  • Develop control strategies using PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems (Rockwell, Siemens, etc.)
  • Design network architecture, control panels, and operator interfaces
  • Perform I/O checkout, startup services, and system documentation
  • Collaborate with process, packaging, mechanical, and electrical engineering teams
  • Serve as a single point of contact for clients, ensuring accountability and streamlined communication
  • Ensure compliance with food safety regulations (e.g., FSMA), sustainability practices, and quality standards
  • Mentor junior engineers and contribute to team development
  • Support speed-to-market initiatives by enabling flexible and efficient production systems
Required Skills & Experience:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or related field
  • 7+ years of experience in automation and controls engineering, preferably in food & beverage manufacturing
  • Strong proficiency in PLC/HMI programming and industrial networking
  • Experience with control system integration, panel design, and operator interface development
  • Familiarity with food safety and regulatory compliance standards (FSMA, GMP, etc.)
  • Knowledge of process and sanitary design, packaging systems, and material handling
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and project management skills
  • Ability to travel occasionally for site visits and commissioning
Preferred Skills:
  • Experience with BIM modeling and 3D coordination
  • Exposure to cogeneration systems and wastewater process design
  • Understanding of supply chain management and speed-to-market strategies
  • Familiarity with sustainability practices and waste-reducing measures
  • Experience in frozen/prepared foods, dairy, beverage, pet food, or protein sectors
What You’ll Be Working On:
  • Projects ranging from site selection and permitting to full-scale design, construction, and startup
  • High-speed packaging systems (e.g., up to 2,000 cans per minute)
  • Precision ingredient processing requiring accuracy down to the gram
  • Integrated design-build delivery with cross-functional engineering and construction teams
  • Facilities that prioritize safety, flexibility, and operational efficiency
Why This Role Stands Out:
  • Work with a team that delivers industry-leading results in cost and schedule performance
  • Be part of a company that integrates engineering and construction for seamless project execution
  • Contribute to projects that nourish the future—from frozen foods to pet nutrition
  • Enjoy a culture that values curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement

RiverPoint Group