Automation Engineer

Meridia Recruitment is excited to partner with Michelin North America (Canada) Inc. in the search for an Automation Engineer to join their team in Waterville, Nova Scotia.

For more than 130 years, Michelin has been a global leader in mobility innovation, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable growth. Employing approximately 4,000 people across Nova Scotia, Michelin continues to invest heavily in facility expansion, modern manufacturing technologies, and automation initiatives that support the future of tire production.

As a result of ongoing capital investments and continued growth at its Waterville facility, Michelin is seeking an Automation Engineer to support the development and implementation of advanced automation solutions that will shape the future of tire manufacturing. The Waterville operation continues to invest significantly in automation, equipment modernization, and advanced manufacturing technologies that support future growth and operational excellence.

Role Description
As the Automation Engineer, you will play a key role in automation-focused capital projects aimed at modernizing existing manufacturing equipment and developing the next generation of automated production technologies. Working closely with engineering, operations, maintenance, and project teams, you will be responsible for designing, programming, implementing, and commissioning automation systems that improve safety, productivity, quality, and operational performance.

This is a project-focused role supporting long-term growth and innovation initiatives. Success in the role requires strong PLC programming capabilities, sound automation engineering knowledge, excellent troubleshooting skills, and the ability to work independently while identifying and implementing effective solutions.

Current projects include:

• Re-automation of existing tire building machines.
• Development of new, storage, and conveyor systems.
• Design and development of large tire manufacturing equipment.
• Advancement of highly automated tire building technologies and processes.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Design, develop, program, and implement industrial automation solutions supporting capital projects and manufacturing improvements.
• Program, modify, and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems.
• Support the integration of modern automation technologies into existing manufacturing equipment.
• Develop automation specifications, control strategies, and technical documentation.
• Participate in equipment selection, procurement, installation, commissioning, and startup activities.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to identify and implement process improvements.
• Provide technical guidance and training on newly installed automation systems.
• Work closely with contractors, vendors, and equipment suppliers throughout project execution.
• Support machinery modernization and manufacturing technology initiatives across the facility.
• Contribute to project planning, budgeting, scheduling, and execution activities.

Your Qualifications

The ideal candidate is a technically strong automation professional who enjoys solving complex problems, takes initiative, and can effectively manage priorities within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Your qualifications include:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Electrical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or automation design.
• Demonstrated PLC programming experience within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Strong understanding of industrial electrical symbols, schematics, and control drawings.
• Working knowledge of electrical panels, industrial control components, and automation hardware.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across multiple teams.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of project deliverables.

Assets include:

• Experience with machine vision systems and inspection technologies.
• Robotics and automated manufacturing experience.
• Experience leading or supporting capital projects.
• Project management or project coordination experience.
• Experience with Rockwell and/or Siemens automation platforms.
• Experience with HMI development, variable frequency drives (VFDs), or motion control technologies.
• Experience beyond the minimum four-year requirement.
• Exposure to highly automated manufacturing environments.

Why join Michelin?

• Major automation and modernization projects supporting long-term facility growth.
• Exposure to advanced manufacturing equipment and evolving automation technologies.
• Globally respected employer known for innovation, stability, and employee development.
• Opportunities for career progression and movement across functions and locations.
• Competitive compensation package, benefits program, and employer-supported pension plan.
• Supportive, team-oriented culture where employees build long and rewarding careers.