Principal Automation Control Engineer

*25-50% Travel Required*

The Principal Controls Engineer, under little or no supervision, leads management and execution of key strategic initiatives for controls and automation for the North American coffee processing and packaging equipment network. The individual works with site-based automation controls engineers in a non-supervisory relationship as well as with 3rd-party vendors as needed to deliver on high-value opportunities.

The engineer collaborates with automation controls engineers to aid in problem-solving, ensure reliable hardware, foster excellence in programming, and ensure compliance to standards as well as to develop documentation and training. They will recommend technical direction and new technologies as well as utilize ‘off the shelf’ and custom solutions to solve and improve the performance of manufacturing equipment. The individual will take the lead role and responsibility of projects including interaction with key project stakeholders and suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Execute long-term controls and automation strategy for the coffee manufacturing network
• Provide technical support to operations and project teams to solve dynamic problems and improve productivity
• Work with internal and 3rd party support teams to drive technical issues to resolution
• Participate in development of network strategy on controls standards and improvement to legacy programs and connections to data systems
• Maintain controls & automation equipment standards
• Participate in the development of specifications for new equipment, design reviews, and acceptance testing plan and execution to ensure excellence in electronics and controls

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

• Salary Range: $96,800 - $140,000
• Actual placement within the compensation range may vary depending on experience, skills, and other factors
• Benefits, subject to election and eligibility: Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Paid Time Off (including paid parental leave, vacation, and sick time), 401k with company match, Tuition Reimbursement, and Mileage Reimbursement
• Annual bonus based on performance and eligibility

• BS in Electrical Engineering or similar, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ Years of Industrial Automation experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 2+ years of processing and/or packaging project-based experience.
• Extensive PLC programming experience is required with Allen-Bradley systems; Siemens, B&R, and Beckhoff experience and knowledge a bonus.
• Good command of current systems and components as well as industry trends and next-generation technology.
• Experience and good working knowledge of MES Systems
• Good working knowledge of SCADA systems, preferably GE iFix and/or Ignition.
• Good understanding of electrical components and best practices used in packaging equipment and manufacturing
• Good working knowledge of variable speed and servo drives and robotic control systems (preferably Fanuc).
• Possess a good understanding of computer and industrial networks including databases.
• Ability to effectively perform in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.
• GE Plant Applications experience a plus.
• Experience working directly with suppliers and vendors
• Preferred experience with coffee processing and packaging equipment including roasters, grinders, blenders, conveyance, palletizing and primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging. Experience with liquid processes a plus.
• Bilingual in English and German or Italian a plus.

Keurig Dr Pepper (Nasdaq: KDP) is a leading beverage company with more than 150 owned, licensed and partner brands that meet a wide range of needs and occasions. Our North American refreshment beverage business holds leadership positions across carbonated soft drinks, water, juice and mixers with a portfolio of iconic brands such as Dr Pepper®, Canada Dry®, Mott’s®, A&W®, Peñafiel®, GHOST®, 7UP®, Snapple®, Clamato® and Core Hydration®. Our global coffee business spans more than 100 markets and includes the leading Keurig® single‑serve brewing system in the U.S. and Canada, along with powerhouse brands such as Peet’s, L’OR and Jacobs, and other regional coffee leaders. Our more than 50,000 employees aim to enhance the experience of every beverage and coffee occasion while making a positive impact for people, communities and the planet.

We strive to be an employer of choice, providing a culture and opportunities that empower our team to grow and develop. We offer robust benefits to support your health and wellness as well as your personal and financial well-being. We also provide employee programs designed to enhance your professional growth and development, while ensuring you feel valued, inspired and appreciated at work.

Whatever your area of expertise, at KDP you can be a part of a team that’s proud of its brands, partnerships, innovation and growth. Will you join us?

Keurig Dr Pepper is an equal opportunity employer and recruits qualified applicants and advances in employment its employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability or association with a person with a disability, medical condition, genetic information, ethnic or national origin, marital status, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

A.I. Disclosure:
KDP uses artificial intelligence to assist with initial resume screening and candidate matching. This technology helps us efficiently identify candidates whose qualifications align with our open roles. AI does not make hiring decisions; all decisions throughout the hiring process are made by talent acquisition team members. If you prefer not to have your application processed using artificial intelligence, you may opt out by emailing your resume and qualifications directly to kdpjobs@kdrp.com in lieu of clicking Apply. In order for your application to be considered and opted out of AI, you must include the words "AI Opt-Out" and either job title and location or Job ID # in the email subject line in your email application.