Industrial IT and automation Engineer

Introduction

Aperam is a global producer of stainless, electrical and specialty steel. With 9,500 employees of 47 nationalities, 2.5 million tons of flat stainless steel capacity in Brazil and Europe, and an industrial network concentrated in six main production facilities across Brazil, Belgium and France, Aperam is a truly global industry leader. 

As part of our manufacturing strategy, Aperam is reinforcing her efforts on Industry 4.0 to further strengthen her digital transformation journey. One of the key pillars in industrial innovation is the use of computer vision to rapidly accelerate the improvement of various disciplines from raw material, operation, quality, safety to automation. Given our strong growth demand, we are expanding our industrial innovation team to further support this development.

 

 

Profile Summary

A passionate team player with a deep understanding of Industry 4.0 principles and technologies, committed to driving digital transformation in industrial automation. With a strong background in engineering and a data-driven approach, you optimize processes through advanced automation and IT integration.

Key Responsibilities

Innovation and Technology Development

• Lead the development of innovative industrial solutions using AI, Machine Learning (ML), IIoT, and advanced analytics to enhance productivity and performance.
• Collaborate with AI/ML engineers, data scientists, and IT teams to develop real-time data pipelines supporting automation and decision-making.

System Integration with Automation

• Integrate AI, ML, and advanced IT solutions with existing automation systems (PLCs, SCADA, DCS, robotics).
• Ensure seamless data exchange and communication between IT and automation platforms using OPC UA, MQTT, and industrial Ethernet.
• Develop and implement AI-driven control strategies to optimize automation processes dynamically.

Commissioning and Validation

• Oversee the installation, configuration, and validation of Industry 4.0 automation systems.
• Test and validate AI/ML models in live production environments, ensuring efficient integration with control systems.
• Diagnose and resolve integration issues during deployment.

 

Data Management and Analytics

• Develop robust data collection, storage, and analytics systems to support AI/ML deployment.
• Implement real-time dashboards and visualization tools for performance monitoring.

Continuous Improvement and Optimization

• Monitor integrated system performance and implement updates to AI/ML models and automation strategies.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and industry trends, proposing new solutions for continuous enhancement.

Skills and Qualifications

Educational Background

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Professional certification or proven application experience in automation (e.g., ISA, Siemens, Rockwell Automation) and IT (e.g., CompTIA).
• Advanced degrees or certifications in AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, or IIoT are highly desirable.

Technical Skills

• 10+ years of experience in programming and configuring PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, and automation systems, with strong expertise in IT integration within an industrial environment.
• In-depth knowledge of industrial networking protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Profibus, EtherCAT, IO-Link).
• Familiarity with industrial communication standards (OPC UA, MQTT, DNP3) and cybersecurity best practices.
• Experience in commissioning and integrating industrial robots, AGVs, with expertise in mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and control systems.
• Proficiency in data management, database configuration, analytical platforms, and machine learning applications (e.g., Python, C++).

Innovation and Problem-Solving Skills

• Proven ability to analyze and resolve complex technical issues in automation and IT systems.
• Demonstrated success in identifying opportunities for innovation and developing creative industrial solutions.

Communication and Collaboration

• Excellent communication skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineers, IT staff, and production personnel.
• Ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and provide clear documentation and training.
• Proven experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing projects in an industrial setting.
• Fluent in English; proficiency in Dutch/French is a plus for interacting with local operations.

Join Aperam, the world-leading stainless steel company that values sustainability and a positive impact on the world. Our 10,700 employees work hard every day to provide affordable long-lasting steel and alloy solutions that support a sustainable society. With our new Recycling and Renewables segment, we're at the forefront of the circular economy, using about 90% scrap metal in our production processes in Europe and producing charcoal from our FSC®-certified forestry in Brazil as a natural and renewable substitute for fossil fuels. 
Aperam is listed on the Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, Madrid, and Luxembourg stock exchanges, with a production capacity of 2.5 million tons and customers in over 40 countries. In our company, we value innovation, collaboration and diversity, providing our employees with the support, training, and opportunities they need to succeed in a dynamic and inclusive work environment. Join us, and together we can build a sustainable future. For more information about us, please visit our website https://www.aperam.com/.