The Senior Valve Automation Specialist is a technical leader responsible for the advanced design, implementation, and optimization of pneumatic and electric valve actuation systems in hygienic food and beverage manufacturing environments. This role drives complex valve automation projects, ensures seamless integration with PLC/SCADA control platforms, and leads troubleshooting efforts to guarantee system reliability, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence across multiple sites. The specialist mentors junior staff, defines standards, and partners with engineering, quality, and maintenance teams to deliver innovative automation solutions aligned with business goals.
Lead the design and specification of pneumatic and electric actuator solutions for complex sanitary valve networks including mixproof, butterfly, and diaphragm valves.
Develop and optimize advanced valve control strategies, including feedback signal processing, fail-safe mechanisms, and digital positioner integration.
Establish engineering standards and best practices for valve automation hardware and software configurations across plants.
Manage large-scale valve automation projects from concept through commissioning and handover.
Coordinate with cross-functional teams (engineering, controls, quality, maintenance, suppliers) to ensure successful project delivery on time and budget.
Oversee vendor qualification and collaborate with suppliers to evaluate new actuator technologies and automation innovations.
Lead root cause analysis and resolution of complex valve actuation failures, pneumatic supply issues, electrical/control system faults, and integration challenges.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance valve automation reliability, reduce downtime, and improve process efficiency.
Ensure all valve automation systems comply with food safety regulations and hygienic design standards.
Maintain and review comprehensive technical documentation, including control logic, wiring schematics, pneumatic diagrams, and validation records.
Mentor and coach junior valve automation engineers and technicians, fostering technical growth and adherence to best practices.
Deliver training sessions on valve automation technologies, troubleshooting techniques, and hygienic design principles.
Advanced pneumatic and electric valve actuator design and integration
PLC/SCADA interface development and troubleshooting
Leadership in automation project management and cross-functional collaboration
Regulatory compliance and hygienic installation standards
Staff development and technical mentorship
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or Automation Engineering
Advanced degree or specialized certifications in valve automation or process control a plus
Professional certifications in valve automation (e.g., Festo, Emerson)
Safety certifications such as OSHA 30 or equivalent
7–10+ years of hands-on experience in valve automation within food & beverage, pharmaceutical, or related industries
Proven expertise in pneumatic and electric valve actuator systems, integration with control systems, and troubleshooting complex issues
Deep knowledge of valve actuator technologies, pneumatic schematics, solenoid and valve terminal assemblies
Proficiency with PLC IO configurations, HMI integration, and diagnostic tools
Strong leadership, project management, and communication abilities
Ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive technical standards adoption