Automation Engineer

Would you like to join a global, growing company that innovates for a more sustainable tomorrow? UPM could be the team for you. We are frontrunners in developing renewable alternatives to fossil-based materials. Besides enabling both businesses and consumers make more sustainable choices, we strive to create a positive UPM experience for all our employees around the world. We live by our values – trust and be trusted, achieve together, renew with courage. Together we can renew the everyday, for a future beyond fossils! 

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UPM Adhesive Materials is looking for a Automation Engineer in Dixon, Illinois.

Greetings from your future manager

Our engineering department is seeking a highly motivated automation engineer at our Dixon facility.  Our mission is to foster an environment that promotes personal growth while providing engineering solutions that solve operational development challenges and optimize existing equipment efficiencies. We strive to execute all our work in a professional manner by focusing on improvements that provide value. We provide engineering solutions that support the company's goal of producing the best quality product in a cost effective and safe manner.  If you are looking for an opportunity to utilize your skillset and learn and grow, come join our team!  - Cullen Searing, Mill Services Manager

What you will do 

• Design, develop, modify, and maintain PLC, HMI, SCADA, drive, motion control, and other automation systems.
• Program and troubleshoot Siemens PLC systems operating on PROFINET and PROFIBUS networks.
• Lead the investigation and resolution of complex automation, machine control, communication, and process control issues to minimize downtime and improve equipment reliability.
• Develop project scopes, control system designs, implementation plans, and cost estimates.
• Support commissioning, startup, testing, and validation of new equipment, upgrades, and automation projects.
• Perform root cause analyses and implement corrective actions for recurring equipment and process issues.
• Develop long-term automation lifecycle plans and support modernization strategies for critical control systems.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation, including electrical drawings, network diagrams, software records, and operating procedures.

Who you are 

• You have a Bachelor's degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• You have at least 2 years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, manufacturing engineering, or a related engineering field.
• You have experience programming and troubleshooting PLC-based control systems.
• You have knowledge of Siemens S7 PLC platforms and industrial automation systems.
• You have experience with HMI, SCADA, industrial networking, managed switch infrastructure, and industrial communication protocols.
• You have a solid understanding of industrial electrical systems, controls, instrumentation, and automation architecture.
• You are an effective communicator with strong written and verbal communication skills.

This is what we offer to you

Safety and well-being – We care about each other and the well-being of our colleagues. We prioritize the safety of all our employees, ensuring everyone returns home safely.

A meaningful job – We do our work with professional pride, producing high-quality, sustainable products for our customers globally. Our community is built on great team spirit and commitment. 

Development opportunities – We offer you great opportunities to learn and grow throughout your career. 

Caring for people and the environment: Responsibility is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to ambitious sustainability targets, and we keep aiming higher. Together we can renew the everyday for a future beyond fossils!

Salary range: 88,000 to 119,000 USD/ year

UPM offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes the following: 

·       Health insurance: comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans 

·       Other insurances: disability coverage, life, and AD&D insurance 

·       Retirement plan: 401(k) with company match and employer retirement contribution 

·       Paid time off: 64 hours of paid time off; 40 hours of paid time leave; 11 company holidays

·       Bonus: annual performance-based short-term incentive plan 

·       Other: professional development opportunities 

Benefits are updated annually and plan level eligibility requirements may apply.

Additional information  about the position

This position is located Dixon, IL.

How to apply

To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter by November 9, 2026. Please note that we accept only applications submitted through our online application system. We begin reviewing applications as they are received, and you may be contacted before the application deadline.  

For support with submitting your application, please contact our HR Services at  careers@upm.com or tel. +18777235247.  

Learn more about how to apply from our Careers page. 

Country-specific information 

Only candidates authorized to work within the United States without sponsorship will be considered. 

UPM North America is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

UPM business / function information

UPM is a material solutions company, renewing products and entire value chains with an extensive portfolio of renewable fibres, advanced materials, decarbonization solutions, and communication papers. Our performance in sustainability has been recognized by third parties, including EcoVadis and the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. We operate globally and employ approximately 15,800 people worldwide, with annual sales of approximately €10.3 billion. Our shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd.  

UPM – we renew the everyday 

Read more: upm.com 

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