Digital Process Automation Engineer

Charter Manufacturing is a fourth-generation family-owned business where our will to grow drives us to do it better. Join the team and become part of our family! The Automation team at Charter Casting is hiring a Digital Process Automation Engineer! Alternative Job Titles: Manufacturing Automation Engineer, MES & Automation Engineer, OT Systems Automation Engineer, Digital Automation Engineer, Manufacturing Systems Engineer Charter Casting is a U.S.-based manufacturer of large complex iron castings and DuraBar®, the industry’s leading continuous cast iron bar. Charter Casting is a member of the Charter Manufacturing family of companies. Job Summary: Lead the design and execution of advanced automation and OT solutions across the business unit. Partner with cross-functional teams to identify and solve complex production and business challenges, establish standards, and drive scalable improvements. Position specifics: Location: Woodstock IL Travel: Up to 10% to other Charter Manufacturing facilities Relocation: Relocation benefits available Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. Charter Manufacturing is unable to sponsor for employment visas at this time. Key responsibilities: Architect and lead MES, HMI, and production system solutions Serve as the technical authority for solution architecture across MES and software automation platforms within the business unit Define OT system architecture and integration strategies Lead complex automation initiatives across OT and IT systems using software automation platforms Establish and scale enterprise-grade automation frameworks and reusable solutions Identify and solve production, quality, and efficiency challenges Establish standards, frameworks, and best practices Oversee system integrations across MES and controls layers Lead commissioning, upgrades, and large-scale implementations Mentor engineers and develop team capabilities Drive adoption of emerging technologies and continuous improvement Lead deployment, commissioning, and validation of solutions in production environments Ensure data integrity, quality, and consistency across integrated systems and reporting solutions Drive user adoption and change management across the business unit Maintain version control, documentation, and traceability for solutions Follow Environmental, Quality, and Safety Management System procedures and requirements Support systems operating in a 24/7 manufacturing environment as required What you’ll need: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field 6+ years of experience in OT systems, software automation platforms, or software engineering Strong experience with MES, system integration, and software automation platforms Experience with database and data tools such as Microsoft SQL Server (MSSQL), Snowflake data lake, and Alteryx Experience with GenAI platforms and tools Advanced programming and system architecture experience Experience leading projects and cross-functional initiatives Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills Nice to haves: Experience with large-scale MES implementations, including Rockwell FactoryTalk ProductionCentre Deep experience with software automation platforms (RPA, low-code/no-code, workflow orchestration tools), preferably Automation Anywhere Experience with AI/GenAI-enabled automation solutions Experience managing vendors and external partners Knowledge of manufacturing standards (ISA-95, IEC/ISO 62264) Experience with cloud platforms and enterprise architectures Experience with cybersecurity principles and practices in OT and IT environments Experience applying Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies Take the next step in your career, apply today! #LI-HYBRID #LI-PF1 The annual hiring range for this position is: $100,000-$125,000. The actual base pay offered to the successful candidate will depend on various factors, including but not limited to job-related skills, experience, and qualifications. Compensation decisions are tailored to the unique circumstances of each position and candidate. We offer comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits, along with a 401(k) plan that includes employer matching and profit sharing. Additionally, we offer company-paid life insurance, disability coverage, and paid time off (PTO).