Automation Control Engineer

Location: 30 Gauthier Drive, Essex Junction, VT 05452

Shift & Schedule. This position supports a Monday–Friday schedule from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Flexibility to work overtime, weekends, and holidays is required based on business needs.

The Automation Controls Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, supporting, and improving a wide range of automated control systems. These systems span from simple loop controllers and relay logic to advanced HMI/PLC-based solutions. This role connects automation systems to the processes of coffee roasting, packaging, and distribution to drive efficiency, quality, and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automated solutions to improve safety, quality, efficiency, and cost performance
• Support commissioning, startup, and optimization of new and existing manufacturing equipment
• Design, implement, and maintain automated system networks
• Manage change control processes and maintain system documentation
• Ensure business continuity through adherence to engineering standards and best practices
• Develop automation and controls capabilities within maintenance and engineering teams
• Implement data acquisition and reporting systems to support testing and evaluation efforts
• Lead automation-focused projects, including planning, execution, and monitoring
• Coordinate capital and continuous improvement initiatives
• Partner with manufacturing leaders to support automated systems and processes
• Collaborate with internal engineering teams and external vendors/contractors
• Develop and deliver training for maintenance and operations personnel
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and ergonomic standards
• Prioritize work based on production needs
• Perform other duties as assigned

• Targeted annual compensation range of $70,000–$80,000.
• This is a salaried, exempt position paid biweekly. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. 

Benefits (Effective Day One, Where Applicable):

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• Disability Coverage

• Paid Time Off (including vacation and sick leave)

• 401(k) with company match

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Mileage Reimbursement

Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and applicable collective bargaining agreements.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent experience
• 1+ years of industrial automation experience in a manufacturing environment
• Strong PLC programming experience required
• Preferred experience with Allen-Bradley systems, including Rockwell FactoryTalk and Logix platforms
• Proficient understanding of industrial networks and communication protocols (including OPC-UA)
• Experience with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)

Preferred Skills & Competencies

• Hands-on electrical experience with control panels and circuits
• Experience with robotic systems, preferably FANUC
• Working knowledge of SCADA systems
• Familiarity with Beckhoff and Siemens systems
• Experience with variable speed and servo drives (Allen-Bradley, Rexroth preferred)
• Knowledge of Visual Basic and databases is a plus
• Strong understanding of computer and industrial networks
• Lean manufacturing experience preferred

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. Please include the job title and location or Job ID # in the email subject line in order for your email application to be considered.