Automation & Digital Systems Engineer

Company: Kellanova
Location: Carrboro
Posted on: November 2, 2025

Job Description:

Step into the future of manufacturing as an Automation & Digital Systems Engineer, where your expertise will help shape how data, systems, and technology come together on the plant floor. This role is a unique blend of hands-on engineering and strategic digital transformation—perfect for someone who thrives on solving complex problems, connecting platforms, and empowering operators with smarter tools and insights. You’ll lead high-impact projects that integrate SCADA, MES, OT networks, and advanced control systems across multiple sites. Working closely with cross-functional teams—including operations, IT, and global engineering—you’ll help drive innovation, standardization, and performance across our network. The role can be based out of Battle Creek, MI; Chicago, IL; Grand Rapids, MI; Cary, NC; or Jackson, TN, with travel estimated at 30–50%, offering a dynamic mix of on-site engagement and strategic execution. A Taste of What You’ll Be Doing Smart Manufacturing Support - Provide technical support to manufacturing facilities in the areas of Industry 4.0, automation, and operational technology. This includes control platforms (Rockwell), SCADA/HMI applications (Rockwell, Wonderware, Ignition), MES systems, SAP integration, Kepware, OPC-UA, OSI-PI, and compliance with electrical/utility code requirements. Project Leadership & Delivery - Lead and coordinate digital engineering projects across North America. Ensure projects are thoroughly scoped, scheduled, and executed in alignment with business priorities. Collaborate with plant and corporate systems engineers, CI teams, IT, and global supply chain partners to deliver impactful solutions. Architecture & Standards - Develop and maintain electrical and software/control system specifications, OT architecture standards, and cost estimating tools. Ensure systems are scalable, secure, and aligned with enterprise-wide digital strategies. Capability Building - Coach and develop operations teams on new digital tools and technologies. Lead and contribute to Communities of Practice to foster collaboration, share best practices, and accelerate digital maturity across the network. Continuous Improvement & Innovation - Identify opportunities to improve system performance, data visibility, and operational efficiency. Stay current on emerging technologies and trends in automation, OT, and smart manufacturing—and bring forward ideas that drive transformation. We’re Looking for Someone With A Bachelor’s degree with 4 years of relevant experience, or a high school diploma/GED with 5 years of technical experience. Strong skills in SQL, SCADA, MES, OT networking (TCP/IP, OPC-UA), Pi/Pi Vision, and data collection systems. Experience with control platforms such as Rockwell/AB, B&R, Beckhoff, Fanuc, and Siemens. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint). The ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly across diverse teams and stakeholders. Experience in project management, budgeting, and cross-functional collaboration. Compensation The annual salary range is $116,300 - $152,670, which is based on various factors such as location, experience and skill. Discretionary bonuses based on company and individual performance are also available. What’s Next Applications for this position will be accepted through November 13, 2025. After you apply, your application will be reviewed by a real recruiter, so it may take us a few weeks to get back with you by email or phone. Visit our How We Hire page to get insights into our hiring process and more about what we offer. All applicants must have permanent legal authorization to work in the United States. Kellanova does not sponsor employment visas for this role. Need assistance throughout the application or hiring process? Email USA.Recruitment@Kellanova.com . Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, accidental death & dismemberment insurance, employee assistance program, short-term disability coverage, and long-term disability insurance. Also, voluntary income protection benefits such as supplemental life, accident as well as a 401(k) plan with company contributions is available. Part-time employees may have access to benefits on a pro-rated basis. See KellanovaTotalHealth.com for more information. Get to Know Us At Kellanova, we are driven by our vision to be the world’s best-performing snacks-led powerhouse, unleashing the full potential of our differentiated brands and our passionate people. Our portfolio of iconic, world-class brands includes Pringles, Cheez-It, Pop-Tarts, MorningStar Farms, Special K, Krave, Zucaritas, Tresor, Crunchy Nut, among others. Kellanova’s Culture of Best means we bring our best to all that we do in pursuit of our vision to be the world’s best performing snacks-led powerhouse. Our culture celebrates boldness and empowers our people to challenge the status quo, achieve results, and win together. Our focus on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) enables us to build a culture of belonging where all employees have a place at the table and are inspired to share their passion, talents and ideas to work. Mars has agreed to acquire Kellanova in a combination that will shape the future of snacking! The transaction is anticipated to close towards the end of 2025 (subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals). The companies remain separate until closing. You can learn more at www.futureofsnacking.com , and our hiring teams will be happy to discuss further questions if your application advances in the hiring process. What does it take to be the best? Someone like you. Kellanova is an Equal Opportunity Employer that strives to provide an inclusive work environment, a seat for everyone at the table, and embraces the diverse talent of its people. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information regarding our efforts to advance Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, please visit our website here .

Keywords: Kellanova, Chapel Hill , Automation & Digital Systems Engineer, Engineering , Carrboro, North Carolina