Automation & Controls Reliability Eng

An Automation & Controls Reliability Engineer focuses on ensuring the consistent, efficient, and safe operation of automated control systems across manufacturing or industrial facilities. While they share some responsibilities with a manager, they are more hands-on and technically focused.

Core Responsibilities:

Control System Reliability & Troubleshooting

• Analyze control system failures (PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, DCS, sensors, drives) and implement corrective actions.
• Perform root cause analysis (RCA) on recurring automation or instrumentation issues.
• Audit automation system health and performance to prevent unplanned downtime.

Preventive & Predictive Maintenance

• Develop or support control-specific maintenance programs (e.g., firmware updates, I/O testing).
• Use tools like oscilloscopes, protocol analyzers, and diagnostics software for proactive fault detection.
• Manage power distribution preventative maintenance.

Programming & Optimization

• Modify, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC/HMI code (Rockwell, Siemens, etc.).
• Improve system efficiency and responsiveness through automation logic enhancements.
• Ensure project adherence to programing standards
• Diagnosed electrical, mechanical, and software issues, providing timely solutions to maintain production flow.
• Collaborated with engineering teams to implement system modifications and improve automation processes.

Data Collection & Analysis

• Utilize control system data to support reliability metrics (MTBF, MTTR, failure trends).
• Work with historians to analyze equipment and power distribution behavior over time.

Change Control & Documentation

• Maintain accurate electrical schematics, logic diagrams, network architecture, and change logs.
• Support MOC (Management of Change) processes to ensure traceability of modifications.
• Train mill on quality assurance protocols and best practices.
• Documented inspection results, non-conformance reports (NCRs), and corrective action plans in compliance with industry standards.

System Upgrades & Obsolescence Management

• Identify and catalog obsolescence
• Assist in migrating legacy control systems to current technologies.
• Recommend and implement hardware/software upgrades for long-term reliability.

Power Distribution Compliance & Safety

• Ensure systems comply with safety standards (NFPA 70E, NFPA 70B, IEC 61508/SIL, etc.).
• Support risk assessments (e.g., HAZOP, LOPA, Safety PLC) involving automated equipment
• Improve power distribution systems safety and reliability.
• Performed testing, troubleshooting, and diagnostics on electrical equipment and components to verify proper functionality

Qualifications you should have:

• Self-directed and motivated.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. 
• Willingness to adapt and thrive in a collaborate team environment. 
• Well organized.
• Excellent interpersonal skills. 
• Effective verbal and written communication skills. 
• Computer proficiency in MS Excel, Word, and Power Point, Power BI, CMMS systems, AutoCAD/Eplan
• 4-year degree in Engineering Electrical degree is preferred but not mandatory, or other similar Engineering Degree 

Our highly competitive compensation package and outstanding benefits include:

• Benefits starting Day 1
• Competitive starting pay
• On-the-job training
• A culture that strongly believes in promoting from within
• Medical
• Dental
• Vision 
• 401k with company matching & retirement contribution
• Employee Stock Purchase plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Paid vacations and holidays
• Employee Assistance Program

Invitation to Apply:

If you are ready to build your career in a company that thrives on growth, a safe work environment, rewarding work, challenge, and opportunity, come build your career with us at West Fraser: www.westfraser.com

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please apply through our online application process as resumes will not be accepted at the site. No phone inquiries, please.

Offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check, and a drug screen test.

West Fraser is a diversified wood products company producing lumber, OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, pulp, newsprint, wood chips, and energy with over 60 facilities in Canada, the United States, and Europe. We are the largest lumber producer in North America, a leading global manufacturer of wood-based panels, and the world’s largest producer of oriented strand board (OSB). 

We are a growing company, believe strongly in promoting from within, and pride ourselves on providing a challenging environment with continuous development. The successful candidate should be interested in future growth opportunities within the company. We offer a competitive benefits package including, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability, 401-k savings plans with company match, and vacation. 

West Fraser believes inclusive, diverse teams build a more vibrant workforce, safer operations, and a stronger company overall. We strive to create workplaces and leadership teams that are reflective of the diverse communities we are a part of. We will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of race, gender, national origin, or any other protected legal characteristic.

West Fraser is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D & Drug-Free Workplace