Sr. Automation Engineer

CBRE Global Workplace Solutions offers a safety‑first culture, competitive compensation, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you both professionally and personally. This onsite role is based in Sparrows Point, MD, with a salary range of USD 131,000 to 135,000 per year. If you bring strong automation expertise and a collaborative mindset, this position provides opportunities for growth within a global network of engineers and operations professionals.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Disability benefit program
• 401(k) with company matching
• Paid time off and holidays
• Company paid life insurance
• Pet insurance
• Paid parental leave

Role overview

As a Senior Automation Engineer for CBRE GWS, you will focus on maximizing the reliability and efficiency of automated material handling equipment and SCADA systems for client operations. The role combines hands‑on engineering with maintenance leadership and project support to optimize performance and prevent incidents across facilities.

What you’ll do

• Promote a safe working environment by following applicable codes, regulations, government agency requirements, and company directives related to system operations and safety.
• Support optimization of material handling equipment systems and assist with project implementations.
• Communicate proactively with leadership, operations, and maintenance teams on technical issues, timelines, and production impacts.
• Manage the site controls related budget.
• Conduct failure analyses and incident reviews; implement process improvements and retraining to prevent recurrence.
• Engineer processes and reliability improvements from concept through network implementation.
• Coordinate technical resources for commissioning, training, installation, and operational performance qualifications for new and existing facilities.
• Monitor the upkeep of MHE and control systems, including PLC/PC controllers and industrial networks (Ethernet, ControlNet, DeviceNet, AS-Interface, Profibus), as well as labeling and parcel sortation systems, motor controls, servo drives, frequency drives, and electrical distribution systems.
• Assist with skill assessments of automation engineers and conduct readiness audits and technical drills.
• Cultivate positive relationships with the Client and Operations Maintenance teams.
• Apply advanced knowledge to develop new methods for achieving individual and department objectives.
• Demonstrate expertise in Controls and Automation Engineering and contribute across related disciplines.
• Coach others to deepen knowledge across the function.

What you’ll need

• Authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship now or in the future.
• Experience in at least two engineering design cycles, including specification, component selection, and programming.
• 5+ years of experience programming HMI components.
• 5+ years of experience with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) programs.
• 5+ years of experience with robotics system components and controls.
• 3+ years of experience with SCADA systems.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and analytical skills with the ability to solve advanced problems in complex situations.
• Ability to exercise judgment based on analysis from multiple sources and make recommendations for the client and company.
• Intermediate Microsoft Office Suite proficiency (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.).
• Ability to travel up to 10% of the time within the assigned region.
• Flexible schedule/shift/work area availability, including weekends, nights, and/or holidays.
• Physical ability to meet job requirements, including stooping, standing, walking, climbing stairs/ladders, and lifting/carrying 50+ lbs.
• Minimum 3 years of engineering experience.

Technologies

• RSLogix 5000
• RSLinx
• Allen‑Bradley PLCs
• HMI
• SCADA
• Ethernet
• ControlNet
• DeviceNet
• AS‑Interface
• Profibus

Preferred qualifications

• Experience crafting automated alarms, reports, and metrics for plant management and HMI configuration
• 4+ years of Allen-Bradley PLC programming using RSLogix 5000 with RSLinx; at least two full cycles of ladder logic design, development, and testing
• Willingness to adopt new perspectives on existing solutions
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office products
• Strong organizational skills and an inquisitive mindset
• Strong mathematical ability for moderately complex calculations
• Project management and development methodology experience

Why CBRE

CBRE invests in employee development through on‑the‑job learning, coaching, and formal training. We provide resources to help you grow in your current role and prepare for future opportunities within the organization.

Candidate accommodations

CBRE offers reasonable accommodations in the application process for individuals with disabilities. If you require assistance, contact recruiting accommodations for support.

Compensation and location

Salary: USD 131,000 to 135,000 per year

Work location: Onsite in Sparrows Point, MD