Automation IT Engineer

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Automation IT Specialist to join our global Automation team. This role sits at the intersection of industrial automation (PLC/SCADA) and IT software development, responsible for maintaining and evolving our automation code standards while building next-generation software tools that support automation activities worldwide. The ideal candidate combines strong industrial controls knowledge with modern software development skills, including the application of AI to accelerate automation development. How you’ll make an impact: PLC Standards & Libraries : Understand, maintain, and extend the company's PLC libraries and coding standards, ensuring consistency and quality across automation projects. SCADA Systems : Work with large-scale SCADA platforms such as System Platform (AVEVA/Wonderware), PCS7, or Ignition, supporting design, configuration, and troubleshooting. Tool Development : Design and develop new software productivity tools for automation engineering teams, primarily using common IT languages and frameworks. Legacy Application Maintenance : Maintain and enhance existing internal software tools built on the .NET framework. Industrial Protocols : Apply hands-on experience with industrial communication protocols (e.g., OPC UA, Modbus, Profinet, Ethernet/IP, MQTT) to support integration between automation systems and IT tools. AI-Enabled Development : Leverage AI tools and techniques (e.g., code generation, implementation acceleration) to improve efficiency and quality of automation software development. Global Tool Strategy : Develop the next generation of IT tools supporting Automation team activities worldwide, in close collaboration with the Digitalization team. Cross-Site Collaboration : Partner with automation and digitalization stakeholders across global offices to align tools and standards with site-level needs. Qualifications: Technical Skills Solid understanding of PLC programming concepts, libraries, and coding standards Practical experience with at least one major SCADA platform: System Platform, PCS7, or Ignition Proficiency in one or more common IT programming languages/frameworks (e.g., C#, VB Script, Python, JavaScript, .NET) Experience maintaining and developing applications on the .NET framework Working knowledge of industrial communication protocols Familiarity with applying AI/LLM tools in an industrial or software development context Strong problem-solving skills and ability to bridge OT (Operational Technology) and IT domains Administer, maintain, and troubleshoot Windows Active Directory domain environments. Good communication skills for collaborating with global, cross-functional teams Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects Willingness to travel internationally to global offices (~20% of time) Preferred Qualifications Master Degree in Automation Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field Prior experience in a manufacturing, process, or industrial environment Experience with digitalization or Industry 4.0 initiatives What’s in it for you: Opportunity to shape the future of automation tooling across a global organization Exposure to cutting-edge AI-driven development practices in an industrial setting Collaborative work with cross-functional digitalization teams International travel and exposure to diverse manufacturing environments Careers Advancing Ovivo Ultra-Pure Water+ by Ecolab’s Water Technology Solutions Help shape the future of water and technology by joining a team that drives innovation in ultrapure water solutions —critical to industries powering global progress. These careers offer the chance to make an impact that matters solving complex challenges, collaborating across borders, and creating solutions that protect vital resources. If you’re passionate about water circularity, sustainability and technology, explore opportunities where your expertise fuels advancement and your growth is supported. At Ecolab, we prioritize our talent-first philosophy by creating the most capable and diverse team to excel at our nearly three million customer sites. Building on a century of innovation, our 48,000 associates help deliver comprehensive science-based solutions, data-driven insights and world-class service to advance food safety, maintain clean and safe environments, and optimize water and energy use, and improve operational efficiencies and sustainability for customers in the food, healthcare, life sciences, hospitality and industrial markets in more than 170 countries around the world. Our solutions not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to sustainability and public health, making a positive impact on the world. We are committed to eliminating unnecessary complexities and embracing a beginner's mindset, continuously seeking new perspectives and innovative solutions to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world. Ecolab’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) reflects our longstanding value of working together to integrate diverse perspectives to challenge ourselves, reach our goals and do what’s right. Apply today and join one of the most ethical companies with over a hundred years of history. Join Ecolab and help us protect what’s vital. #li-eu