The J.M. Smucker Co. · 12 hours ago
Principal Controls Engineer
Topeka, KS
Full-time
Hybrid
Lead/Staff
8+ years expThe J.M. Smucker Co. is a leading company in the food industry, and they are seeking a Principal Controls Engineer to lead automation and technology initiatives across multiple manufacturing sites. This role involves managing projects, establishing engineering standards, engaging with vendors, and providing corporate technical support to ensure alignment with business objectives.
ConfectioneryFood and BeverageManufacturing
Responsibilities
Support, lead, or manage larger automation, controls, and technology projects at manufacturing sites, including possible installation oversight. Collaborate with engineering and operations leaders from feasibility through startup and CQV (commissioning/qualification/verification)
Apply, maintain, and develop engineering standards to ensure consistency and compliance with NFPA 70, NFPA 70E, NFPA 79, NEC, OSHA 1910. Communicate standards, guidance, and recommendations to engineering and controls personnel at the sites
Work closely with vendors to establish accurate quotations and resolving issues when needed. Leverage our internal resources to ensure terms and conditions are acceptable. Proactively engage with outside companies to explore new technologies
Provide C&IS support to operations, ensuring alignment with business objectives. Support MES and IS Operations when priorities align
Understand current automation and technology state and drive targeted improvements, reapplications, and emerging technologies as part of the greater Operations Technology Team
Serve as the subject matter expert for key technologies, providing guidance and support to the engineering and operations teams
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in engineering or 20+ years of equivalent plant experience
8+ years in controls/automation
5+ years in manufacturing
2+ years of managing others
Strong knowledge of control hardware/software (Allen Bradley PLC and Rockwell FactoryTalk platforms)
Familiarity with NFPA and OSHA guidelines as they apply to electrical, controls, and automation
Preferred
Knowledge with plant systems software (Proficy, Project Management, eAM, etc.)
Mechanical/electrical experience in food manufacturing
Ability to collaborate across departments and sites
Remote management capability
Strong judgement and adaptability
Company
The J.M. Smucker Co.
At The J.M. Smucker Co., it is our privilege to make food people and pets love by offering a diverse family of brands available across North America.
5001-10000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
The J.M. Smucker Co. has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (8)
2024 (6)
2023 (3)
2022 (5)
2021 (4)
2020 (3)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Rebecca Scheidler
Senior Vice President & General Manager, Consumer Foods
Recent News
2025-11-25
2025-10-15
Bleichmar Fonti & Auld
2025-09-26
Company data provided by crunchbase