Automation Engineer in Lexington, Kentucky at Excel Engineering, Inc.

At Excel Engineering, we are the power behind our clients’ processes.

We are a full-service engineering consulting firm specializing in electrical engineering, industrial automation, and power systems. For over 30 years, we’ve partnered with leading companies across industries to deliver solutions that improve safety, efficiency, and performance.

Our work spans sectors including life sciences, consumer goods, chemical, oil & gas, and utilities, giving our team the opportunity to work on complex, high-impact projects.

What sets us apart is our approach, we build long-term partnerships by understanding our clients’ operations and acting as an extension of their team. If you’re looking to grow your skills, take on meaningful challenges, and make a real impact, Excel Engineering offers the opportunity to do just that.

Role Overview

You’ll play a key role in designing, developing, and delivering advanced automation solutions. Your work will include:

• Developing PLC programs and HMI applications based on user requirements or functional specifications
• Performing loop checks and system checkouts to ensure designs operate safely and effectively
• Configuring communication interfaces between control systems
• Reviewing and maintaining electrical schematics, P&IDs, and instrumentation documentation
• Designing electrical packages—including I/O layouts, control panel designs, and bills of material
• Tuning and optimizing automatic control systems utilizing PLC hardware
• Specifying and configuring VFDs and servo drive systems
• Creating clear and accurate project documentation to meet client expectations
• Validating control systems according to project scope and requirements
• Working directly with end-users, vendors, and contractors to deliver projects on time and within budget

Experience

• +3 years of experience in automation
• Experience in industries such as Consumer Goods, Renewable Energy, Gas Processing, Chemical, Power, Waste Management, or Pharmaceutical

Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering (ABET-accredited or equivalent experience)
• GPA of 3.0 or higher

Qualifications

• Strong interest or experience in computer programming
• Exposure to electrical design and engineering calculations
• Familiarity with PLC logic, HMI systems, control panel layouts, communication networks, and instrumentation
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or willingness to obtain it
• Willingness to travel up to 20%

We offer…

• Growth & Development: Ongoing continuing education, hands-on training, and opportunities to expand your skills.

• Career Advancement Support: Assistance in earning professional certifications and pursuing further education.

• Retirement Benefits: 401(k) plan with employer matching.

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance options.

• Wellness Focus: Access to programs designed to support your overall well-being.

• Work–Life Balance: Paid time off and flexible work environment

• Flexibility & Trust: A flexible schedule and work environment built around mutual trust and accountability.

• Share the Talent, Share the Rewards: We value great people recommending great people, which is why our employee referral program is designed to reward you continuously

We offer a competitive salary and great benefits. At Excel Engineering, we’re proud of our positive, high-performing culture where teamwork, continuous improvement, and a service-oriented mindset help us do our best work every day. If you enjoy a fast-paced and rewarding environment, you’ll love being part of our team!

Excel Engineering, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, or any other protected characteristic.

We value diverse perspectives and believe they strengthen our work, our teams, and the solutions we deliver to clients. We encourage candidates from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in engineering to apply. If you need accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact our Human Resources team at ExcelHR@exceleng.net.