We make pet food taste great! For over 30 years, AFB International has been providing pet food solutions that enrich the lives of pets and their people. Our palatants are specially designed to make pet foods, treats and supplements taste better, ensuring pets receive the vital nutrients they need. We know wagging tails, licking whiskers and empty bowls equal happy pets and happy pet parents. Join AFB and you'll be a part of a team of highly skilled professionals that provide the greatest contribution to our success as an organization. Our team members are diverse, creative, passionate experts who are genuinely dedicated to our mission, our customers, and the pets we serve worldwide. Job Description AFB International, a recognized leader in the pet food industry, has been enhancing the lives of pets and their owners for over 30 years. Our specialized palatants improve the flavor and nutritional value of pet foods, treats, and supplements, ensuring pets receive the essential nutrients they need. As part of Ensign-Bickford Industries, Inc. (EBI), a privately-owned high-technology conglomerate, AFB International operates across multiple global locations, including the United States (global headquarters), Europe, Latin America, Mexico, Australia, and China. As an Automation Controls Engineer, you’ll be responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting cutting-edge automation and control solutions in a manufacturing environment. You’ll be at the forefront of AFB’s digital and automation transformation—applying your expertise to enhance reliability, efficiency, and process performance. Key Responsibilities Program, modify, and troubleshoot Allen Bradley / Rockwell PLCs (Studio 5000, RSLogix 5000, 500, 5) Lead commissioning of automation control systems and projects Develop SCADA/HMI solutions. Apply advanced ladder logic and phase logic for batch process control Configure, install, and maintain automation software & hardware Support OT infrastructure following Purdue Model and industrial networking best practices Manage capital projects—scoping, budgeting, scheduling, and execution Ensure cGMP compliance and process documentation Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive process improvement Qualifications Required: Expertise in Allen Bradley / Rockwell PLCs and related software Strong grasp of ladder logic, control system design, and troubleshooting SCADA/HMI experience (preferably AVEVA / Wonderware / InBatch and/or Ignition) Deep understanding of industrial controls, electrical systems, and instrumentation Experience commissioning network-based OT systems Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or related field preferred Preferred: Background in food, flavoring, or pharmaceutical manufacturing Experience in liquid/dry blending and spray drying processes Familiarity with cGMP environments and automated batch processing Why Join AFB International? High-Growth Global Company in a resilient, non-cyclical industry Ongoing Capital Investment – including new blend lines and future R&D initiatives Privately Held, Professionally Managed organization with long-term stability Set the Vision – Shape the site’s controls & automation roadmap Implement New Tools & Capabilities to advance site performance and AFB operations Career Development – We believe in investing in our people Make a Difference with Us Be a part of a company that combines high-tech innovation with a passion for pet nutrition. If you're ready to shape the future of automation in a global organization that values long-term vision and team development—we want to hear from you. AFB International is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status. For over 30 years, AFB International has been providing pet food solutions that enrich the lives of pets and their people. Our palatants are specially designed to make pet foods, treats and supplements taste better, ensuring pets receive the vital nutrients they need. We know wagging tails, licking whiskers and empty bowls equal happy pets and happy pet parents. Headquartered in St. Charles, Missouri, USA, AFB has offices and production facilities strategically positioned around the globe in the United States, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, the Netherlands, China, and Australia. Our organization is comprised of a variety of departments including research & development, manufacturing & operations, quality assurance and sales & marketing. AFB is a wholly owned subsidiary of Ensign-Bickford Industries, Inc., a privately-held, family-owned, professionally managed technical business that traces its roots back more than 175 years. Above all else, AFB International values its employees, its customers, the animals they serve and the communities in which we do business. The cornerstone of our enduring legacy is stated in the EBI Core Values. AFB's global headquarters instituted a dog-friendly workplace, and the benefits have far exceeded our expectations! The biggest changes we have noticed around the office are: Having dogs here makes us move! Now we have a reason to get up and take a walk outside for some fresh air. It’s amazing how we don’t do this when we are alone but leave it to Fido to make us get up and get in a little exercise. Having dogs here makes us talk! Who needs an icebreaker when you see fellow colleagues walking their beloved pooch? How can you walk by a wagging tail? The dogs make you stop and say hi. Many relationships have been strengthened by having dogs at work. Having dogs here makes us happy! In a fast-paced workplace, it’s easy to get lost in the daily grind. It’s amazing how many colleagues swing by the office of someone with a pet just to get some fur therapy. They put a smile on your face and remind you to not sweat the small stuff. Join AFB’s team of experts at our blog site to access and exchange information about the research, trends, and innovations moving the global pet food industry forward. Go to Blog