Automation Engineer

Your role

As part of our digitalization strategy at Atlas Copco, we are transforming our engineering department into a data-driven organization that leverages advanced automation tools to improve products and processes. Our Model Based Engineering and Automation team plays a key role in this mission, collaborating with project teams and test engineers worldwide to implement state-of-the-art automation solutions (from PLC/SCADA control systems to model-based engineering tools) across our test infrastructure. In this position, you will support both test cell revamp projects and new test bench designs, ensuring they adhere to our automation standards and best practices. You will design, implement, and optimize control systems for testing equipment—using a combination of model-based design tools (MATLAB/Simulink & Stateflow) and industrial automation platforms (such as PLC controllers and SCADA systems)—to simulate and control mechanical systems and their behavior. Working closely with project leaders and engineers, you will provide expertise in predictive modeling, system optimization, and verification of test setups. A significant part of your role is to proactively define and run tests that validate theoretical models against real-world data. You will analyze simulation results and compare them with actual measurements. Based on these insights, you will refine models and control strategies, contributing to continuous improvement of our test processes and capturing the knowledge gained for future projects.

To succeed, you will need

At Atlas Copco Group, our slogan for various positions is "hire for attitude & train for skill". We train you for these positions through on-the-job-training. Do you only partly meet the profile as outlined below? No problem! We still encourage you to apply and take this opportunity. Who knows, on-the-job-training may be available for you for this position.   

• Education: Master’s degree (or higher) in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g., industrial, electrical, mechanical, or software engineering).
• Automation & Control Expertise: Solid experience in automation and control systems development, including programming PLCs using IEC 61131-3 languages. Familiarity with common automation platforms such as Beckhoff TwinCAT, Siemens TIA Portal/Step 7, or Rockwell Automation (Allen-Bradley) is highly valued.
• Model-Based Design: Familiarity with model-based engineering and simulation tools, especially MATLAB/Simulink (and Stateflow for logic design). Ability to develop and tune control algorithms through simulation and then implement them in real control systems is a plus.
• Programming Skills: Strong programming skills for automation applications. Experience with Python or other scripting languages for data analysis and automation is a plus.
• SCADA & Industrial Networks: Experience with SCADA systems for supervisory control and data acquisition is a significant plus. Knowledge of industrial communication protocols and networks (e.g., EtherCAT, PROFINET, Modbus TCP/IP) and general industrial IoT integration will strengthen your effectiveness in this role.
• Domain Knowledge: Strong understanding of mechanical systems and thermodynamics, enabling you to effectively model physical processes and interpret results in the context of equipment performance.
• Project Experience: Relevant professional experience in system and process control development—preferably in a test lab, R&D, or industrial automation environment. Proven ability to analyse key requirements and discuss solutions with all relevant stakeholders.

In return, we offer

At Atlas Copco Group you will join an international and diverse environment with specialists from different disciplines. Our culture is rooted in Swedish values, which includes a family feeling, respect and diversity. We invest in our employees' development and well-being, and we provide a flexible work-life balance. With our inclusive and caring environment, you get the support and inspiration you need to grow. Here, your ideas are embraced, and you never stop learning.

You will have a comprehensive onboarding program, including guidance by a personal godmother/godfather. You will also have access to global job opportunities, as part of the Atlas Copco Group. We offer an interesting compensation and benefits package, including health insurance, paid leave and retirement benefits.

Job location

This role offers a hybrid working arrangement, allowing you to split your time between working remotely and being on-site at our Atlas Copco airpower site in Antwerp, Belgium (BE).