Senior Automation Specialist

Spark Power, a trusted partner in power in North America, is looking for a Senior Automation Specialist to join our team in Cambridge or Mississauga. A Senior Automation Specialist is responsible for the programming, configuration, troubleshooting, installation, commissioning, and ongoing support of industrial automation and control systems. This role supports the design, implementation, and optimization of automated equipment and processes to improve operational efficiency, reliability, and system performance. The Senior Automation Specialist provides technical expertise related to PLC, HMI, SCADA, VFD, Servo, Vision System, Barcode System, industrial networking, robotics, and electrical control systems while supporting customer projects both on-site and remotely.

Here’s what you will do as a Senior Automation Specialist:

• Design, develop, program, test, and troubleshoot industrial automation and control systems for customer and internal applications.
• Develop and maintain PLC, HMI and SCADA programs for industrial equipment, machinery, and automated systems.
• Configure, commission, and troubleshoot variable frequency drives (VFDs), servo systems, motion control systems, and associated electrical components.
• Prepare functional descriptions, process control documentation, and sequences of operation for automated systems.
• Support the integration of automation hardware and software into industrial manufacturing or operational environments to improve efficiency, productivity, and performance.
• Perform startup, commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimization of new or modified automation systems and production equipment.
• Diagnoses and resolve electrical, programming, communication, and system performance issues for customers and internal stakeholders.
• Provide technical support and guidance to customers, field teams, and internal departments regarding automation systems and control-related challenges.
• Assist with equipment specifications and the selection and procurement of electrical and automation components.
• Participate in emergency service response requirements, including after-hours support and on-call schedules, as required.
• Support robotic applications, including commissioning, troubleshooting, and programming, where applicable.
• Travel to customer sites to support field installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and technical support activities.
• Maintain accurate documentation, programming backups, reports, and project records.
• Participate in required training, certifications, and ongoing professional development.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Here are some of the perks Spark employees enjoy:

• Competitive Wages
• Excellent Benefits Package with flexible options and wellness spending accounts
• RRSP Matching
• Diverse and exciting industrial, commercial and institutional customer base
• Continuous training and skills improvement including Spark U and external training certifications
• Corporate discounts (such as hotels, travel, insurance, retail..)
• …much more

Do you have the Spark? Here’s what we’re looking for:

• Proficiency in PLC and HMI programming, troubleshooting, and system integration.
• Experience working with industrial control platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Omron, or equivalent automation systems.
• Knowledge of VFDs, servo systems, motion control systems, and motor controls.
• Ability to read, interpret, and create electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, control panel layouts, and technical drawings.
• Experience using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD/EPlan) for control panel design and electrical layouts.
• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills related to electrical systems, automation equipment, and process controls.
• Understanding of industrial networking fundamentals and communication protocols.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical decision-making skills.
• Familiarity with robotic systems, machine automation, and manufacturing equipment are considered an asset.
• Knowledge of SQL databases, data collection systems, or industrial reporting tools is considered an asset.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing operational or project requirements.

• Minimum of 15 years of relevant experience in industrial automation, controls programming, electrical systems, or manufacturing environments.
• Extensive experience programming, troubleshooting, and supporting PLCs, HMIs, and industrial control systems.
• Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems, machine controls, and automation equipment.
• Experience with control panel design, electrical schematics, and system commissioning considered an asset.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across teams and with customers.
• Valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record and ability to travel to customer sites, as required.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including overtime, weekends, travel, and on-call support, as operationally required.

Who is Spark Power?

Spark Power is the leading independent provider of end-to-end electrical services and operations and maintenance services to the industrial, utility, and renewable asset markets in North America. We work to earn the right to be our customers’ Trusted Partner in Power™. Our highly skilled and dedicated people, located in the communities we serve, combined with our knowledge of the power industry, technology expertise, and commitment to safety, ensures we deliver the right solutions that keep our customers’ operations up and running today and better equipped for tomorrow.

Spark Power welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

Artificial intelligence tools may be used to support parts of the recruitment and selection process, including application screening