Job Description

Senior Automation Engineer - AeroFarms AgX Ltd. (Abu Dhabi, UAE)

As a Certified B Corporation, AeroFarms is a mission-driven indoor vertical farming company transforming agriculture with global headquarters in Newark, NJ. Recognized by Inc.com as one of the Top 25 Disruptive Companies in the World, AeroFarms is scaling quickly to meet the demand for our fresh, locally grown produce that is setting new culinary standards. Recently, the company announced it will build a state-of the art research and development (R&D) center in Abu Dhabi to create an in country Agri-Tech ecosystem. We now look for seasoned professionals to join our Abu Dhabi entity for establishment and growth of our operation in the region.

We have:

• An incredible 'change-the-world' company with the eyes of the world focused on our success
• A team of motivated, intellectually curious, and creative individuals to support you
• The backing of some seriously impressive firms including Goldman Sachs, IKEA, Prudential, and other leading venture funds

Summary:

The Senior Automation Engineer will join an experienced team of specialists working closely with multiple departments to ensure success of long-range goals and strategies. Reporting to the Director of Engineering, Senior Automation Engineer is an integral part of the Engineering Team and is responsible for the development and engineering of new, innovative automation solutions for the next generation of indoor farming.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the conceptualization, initiation, design, development and implementation of new and improved automation systems including: design generation, prototype development, engineering specifications, component qualification, vendor evaluation, functionality and quality testing, commissioning.
• Manage controls engineering tasks within new equipment development, starting at concept phase, through preliminary design and final design phases. Direct controls engineers that are contributing to these projects. Set and hit budget and schedule for developing the controls software/hardware so it never becomes the bottleneck in equipment design projects.
• Translate requirements from scientists, operations and other engineers into equipment design specifications
• Sign off on all released drawings for hardware, assemblies and controls software. Maintain revision control by updating to as-builts and updating archived software when any change is made.
• Integrate machine vision and data analysis into automation equipment, including feeding data back to scientists and engineers
• Understand, interpret, and refine automation testing procedures and standards to support the effective design, validation (FAT, SAT), and implementation of new equipment and technology.
• Create project cost and savings estimates, final package component specifications, Bills of Materials, equipment specifications and functional specifications.
• Collaborates closely with all cross functional project team members and stakeholders.
• Identify and implement cost saving initiatives to improve efficiency and to reduce costs.
• Establish trial protocol to ensure equipment performs as specified and meets all project success criteria.
• Attends FAT testing and approves equipment for delivery.
• Is responsible for the establishment and maintenance of a secure site working environment, controlling risks to project, property, and personnel from external factors.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• BSc. or BE in Mechanical, Electrical or Systems Engineering.
• Master's degree in a related field is a plus
• 7-10 years of experience demonstrating knowledge and experience with developing and deploying automation systems.
• Previous experience in Food, Agriculture, or Agriculture Technology is a plus.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Highly effective interpersonal skills
• Teamwork skills and a collaborative approach to work
• Able to multitask and prioritize the workload
• Able to create and conduct presentations to the management and stakeholders.
• A flexible approach to work with the ability to adapt to a fast-paced environment
• Advanced skills with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Proficient in Auto-CAD, SolidWorks, and process simulation software for factory automation.
• Must have proven experience in automation systems, performance specifications, and testing protocols.
• Experience in automatic conveyance, robotic manipulation/picking and machine vision systems is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem solving skills and an aptitude for detail required and a proven track record of demonstrable leadership qualities a must.
• Must have strong communication and organizational skills, including the ability to facilitate meetings and communicate outcomes, prepare progress reports and track project financials, and develop presentations and present in a cross functional environment to internal and external audiences.
• Experience with Risk Analysis, Design Control and Sanitary Design best practices is a plus.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong knowledge of OSHA codes is a requirement.
• Knowledge of Food Safety and Quality (FSQ) codes is a plus
• Knowledge of Emirati codes and regulations is a plus.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This is a full-time in person position with normal work hours and workdays. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required as job duties demand.

Other duties

• Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Important Considerations:

** This position requires a valid Driving License **

** This position requires international travel **

** This position requires a complete residency in Abu Dhabi, UAE **

** This position must be accessible during some US work hours for reporting and coordinating **

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