Automation Engineer

The Opportunity

The Automation Engineer reports directly to the Manager, Automation and is responsible for supporting the automation actions for the facility. The automation actions will include system backups and disaster recovery, production support, department training and continuous improvement initiatives. The Automation/Controls Specialist will play a key role in supporting the plant to improve equipment efficiency and optimize manufacturing effectiveness.

Any MLF team member interested in being considered for this role are encouraged to apply online by August 19. Applications received beyond that date are not guaranteed consideration.

Reason for vacancy: Existing Headcount

Compensation: $71,000 - $103,000 CAD base pay annually plus annual short-term incentive

The above compensation reflects the target compensation for the position at the time of posting. The base salary offered may vary based on a variety of factors including skills, experience, education, training, job- related knowledge, and other organizational requirements. For part-time roles, salaries are adjusted according to scheduled hours. In addition to base salary, this role is eligible to participate in Maple Leaf’s annual short-term incentive plan.

Snapshot Of a Day-in-the-Life

• Consistent with our leadership values, act as a champion for our culture by participating in the development and execution of a positive and productive environment focused on the needs of our people.
• Provide direct support for all automation deliverable actions to align with Automation Strategy Plan & Operational Shift Support requirements
• Support a backup and disaster recovery plan for all plant Control and Automation systems. Control and Automation systems including PLC, PC, HMI, SCADA, Robotics and Building Automation.
• Support the Instrumentation program to meet all facility FSQA, regulatory and operational requirements.
• Support Predictive, Preventative and Proactive maintenance requirements for Controls related systems.
• Work with Vendors and Suppliers to establish strong collaborative relationships.
• Follow the Facility Controls and Electrical build standard in alignment with the Corporate Engineering standards.
• Troubleshoot equipment in the plant locally or through VPN access when required. Mentor team members when required to work through and solve equipment controls related issues.
• Be comfortable with the Escalation procedure and understand the requirement of receiving after hours calls from time to time
• Recognizing the needs of the plant, must be able to work as part of a team on a rotating shift that covers days, afternoons and nights with the opportunity for weekend overtime as needed
• Maintain equipment level network systems to align with Corporate IS protocols and requirements.
• Manage and support facility Building Automation System

What You’ll Bring

• 2-3 year Canadian College diploma in Industrial Controls/Automation with at least 1 year of experience
• Experience programming & PLC troubleshooting.
• Proven experience troubleshooting industrial control systems
• Self-learner
• Experience in the implementation, integration and calibration of instrumentation.
• Create and maintain electrical prints in AutoCAD
• Ability to solve complex problems within a dynamic working environment
• Strong analytical skills with a proven history in solving complex problems and computer skills.
• Knowledge of current safety standards and regulations.
• Being able to solve unique problems, extending the boundaries of existing knowledge

What We Offer At Maple Leaf Foods

• Being part of a high-performance, people-focused company that has an inspiring and unique vision to become the most sustainable protein company on earth, and a deep commitment to sustainable protein across North America.
• An inclusive company culture and a work environment that keeps our people safe, rewards excellence, and empowers everyone to learn and contribute their best.
• Competitive Health and Wellness benefits that offer flexibility to meet your individual or family needs, including programs focused on improving mental health and wellbeing. These benefits start on your first day of employment.
• Defined Contribution Pension Plan with company matching that starts on your first day of employment.
• Learning and development opportunities, including workshops, ‘speaker series’ events, and resources that allow you to develop your skills and progress your career.
• Comprehensive tuition reimbursement program that supports continuous learning and development of our team members through investment in eligible degrees, diplomas, professional certification, or trades programs.
• Supporting our deep commitment to community impact, we offer up to two paid days annually to volunteer at a cause of your choice.

We’re a carbon neutral food company on a purposeful journey to Raise the Good in Food through better nutrition, safer food and workplaces, more humane animal care, and environmental sustainability efforts that protect our planet. We care about our communities and commit to reducing food insecurity in Canada. Join us on the journey. Let’s build a better future, together.

We’re passionate about food. For more than 100 years, we’ve made delicious, healthy protein that Canadians love under iconic national and regional brands, like Maple Leaf, Schneiders, and Greenfield Natural Meat Co. We’re on a journey to become the most sustainable protein company – not just in Canada – but on earth.

• We are carbon neutral.
• We are one of the only food companies in Canada to set science-based targets.

We’re a global food company with approximately 10,000 team members. We operate sites in 20+ locations across Canada. We also have locations in the U.S. and Mexico, and do business in Asia.

A diverse and inclusive work environment

Championing diversity and inclusion is a critical component to advancing our collective purpose and vision and living the Maple Leaf Leadership Values. We believe in building, investing in, recognizing, and rewarding remarkable people who value an inclusive workplace, embrace all forms of diversity, and commit to including every voice in our collaborative environment. We’re so much stronger when we know we’re accepted and valued for who we are and what we each bring to the workplace.

We embrace a strong, values-based culture

Our eight Leadership Values are our north star. They guide the decisions we make for all our stakeholders: our consumers, our customers, our people, our communities, our shareholders, and the environment.

• Doing What’s Right
• Shared Value
• High Performance
• Diverse and Inclusive Teams
• Disciplined Decision Making
• Our Accountability
• Intense Curiosity
• Transparency and Humility

We thank all applicants for their interest in exploring employment opportunities with Maple Leaf Foods; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Applicants may be subject to a background check and must meet the security criteria designated for the position.

Championing diversity and inclusion is a critical component to advancing our collective purpose and vision, living the Maple Leaf Leadership Values, and delivering winning results. Accommodation is available upon request for applicants with disabilities in the recruitment and assessment process and when hired; please contact our Talent Attraction Team at

Disclaimer: Please note that salaries posted on sites other than the MLF Careers Page are not a reflection of Maple Leaf Foods and are an estimated salary range provided by that particular job board. Maple Leaf Foods offers competitive wages and an attractive total rewards package, which will be discussed during an interview with our Talent Team.