Position Overview
The Reliability Automation Engineer is responsible for improving equipment reliability, automation, and overall manufacturing performance. This position combines reliability engineering and automation expertise to reduce equipment downtime, improve operational efficiency, and support the facility's long-term engineering strategy. The role provides technical support for plant automation systems while leading reliability improvement initiatives, root cause analysis, and equipment optimization.
Any MLF team member interested in being considered for this role are encouraged to apply online by November 19. Applications received beyond that date are not guaranteed consideration.
Job Functions
- Lead root cause analysis (RCA) for equipment failures and implement corrective actions to prevent recurring downtime.
- Develop and manage predictive, preventive, and proactive maintenance requirements for equipment and controls-related systems, ensuring procedures and practices are incorporated into the Reliability Maintenance Program and SAP.
- Support and maintain plant automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, MES, robotics, and instrumentation.
- Troubleshoot complex electrical, controls, and automation issues locally or through remote VPN access, providing technical support and mentoring to Maintenance team members.
- Analyze equipment performance and maintenance data to identify improvement opportunities and monitor reliability metrics. (MTBF, MTTR, OEE, PM compliance) to plant leadership.
- Manage automation and controls change control processes, including PLC programs, electrical drawings, and system documentation.
- Develop and maintain facility controls and electrical build standards in alignment with Corporate Engineering standards.
- Manage relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure appropriate technical support, service agreements, and support contracts are maintained.
- Maintain equipment-level network systems in alignment with Corporate Information Systems protocols and requirements.
- Support and lead equipment installations, modifications, commissioning, and CER projects.
- Partner with Maintenance, Operations, Engineering, and OEMs to improve equipment performance and manufacturing efficiency.
- Develop and maintain equipment controls standards, automation backups, and contingency plans.
- Provide technical training and coaching to Maintenance and Operations personnel to strengthen equipment and automation knowledge.
- Support the facility Reliability Maintenance Program, including equipment criticality assessments, spare parts strategies, and CMMS improvements.
- Ensure compliance with company safety, food safety, and quality requirements.
- Participate in the plant escalation process and provide technical support outside normal business hours when required.
What you'll bring:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology, preferably electrical, mechanical, industrial, or automation, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- 3–5 years of experience in reliability engineering, automation, controls, or manufacturing engineering.
- Working knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, MES, instrumentation, and industrial control systems.
- Experience with root cause analysis, preventive and predictive maintenance, and equipment troubleshooting.
- Experience with equipment commissioning, engineering changes, and capital projects.
- Knowledge of CMMS systems, preferably SAP.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively across Maintenance, Operations, and Engineering.
- Knowledge of applicable electrical safety, food safety, and regulatory requirements.
- Preferred: CMRP, CRE, vibration analysis, or automation certifications considered an asset.
- Food manufacturing experience preferred.
What We Offer at Maple Leaf Foods:
- Being part of a high-performance, people-focused company that has an inspiring and unique vision to become the most sustainable protein company on earth, and a deep commitment to sustainable protein across North America.
- An inclusive company culture and a work environment that keeps our people safe, rewards excellence, and empowers everyone to learn and contribute their best.
- Competitive Health and Wellness benefits that offer flexibility to meet your individual or family needs, including programs focused on improving mental health and wellbeing.
- Learning and development opportunities, including workshops, ‘speaker series’ events, and resources that allow you to develop your skills and progress your career.
- Comprehensive tuition reimbursement program that supports continuous learning and development of our team members through investment in eligible degrees, diplomas, professional certification, or trades programs.
- Supporting our deep commitment to community impact, we offer up to two paid days annually to volunteer at a cause of your choice.
We thank all applicants for their interest in exploring employment opportunities with Maple Leaf Foods; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Applicants may be subject to a background check and must meet the security criteria designated for the position.Championing diversity and inclusion is a critical component to advancing our collective purpose and vision, living the Maple Leaf Leadership Values, and delivering winning results. Accommodation is available upon request for applicants with disabilities in the recruitment and assessment process and when hired; please contact our Talent Attraction Team at [email protected]: Please note that salaries posted on sites other than the MLF Careers Page are not a reflection of Maple Leaf Foods and are an estimated salary range provided by that particular job board. Maple Leaf Foods offers competitive wages and an attractive total rewards package, which will be discussed during an interview with our Talent Team.
