Automation Engineer - PLC & UX, Process Automation (all genders)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Automation Engineer - PLC & UX, Process Automation

Company: RHI Magnesita

Location: Hünenberg, Switzerland

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Engineering / Automation Operations

Date Posted: September 02, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the development of future automation capabilities within the Competence Center, focusing on PLC and UX controls.

• Design and implement robust control solutions, intuitive user interfaces, and scalable automation architectures for products, machines, and integrated systems.

• Contribute to a modern engineering environment utilizing model-based development and automated PLC code generation, laying groundwork for AI-supported engineering.

• Collaborate closely with internal teams and external partners to transform engineering solutions into modular, standardized, and reusable platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within an "Automation Engineer - PLC & UX, Process Automation" skill pool, suggesting a specialization within a broader automation engineering function. The emphasis on "Competence Center" indicates a hub for specialized knowledge and development, likely involving innovation and standardization efforts across the company's global operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain PLC-based control systems for machines, intelligent handling systems, and process automation applications, ensuring operational efficiency and reliability.

• Design intuitive HMI (Human-Machine Interface) and UX (User Experience) solutions to guarantee safe and efficient operation of automated systems.

• Define functional concepts, interfaces, and reusable software modules to build modular product platforms that can be deployed across various regions and throughout the product lifecycle.

• Translate business and customer requirements into detailed technical specifications and implement effective automation solutions.

• Evaluate, test, and qualify technologies, software components, and automation solutions from external providers, making fact-based recommendations for integration or make-or-buy decisions.

• Support testing, commissioning, documentation, and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the entire product lifecycle of automation systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of hands-on development, strategic evaluation, and lifecycle support, indicating a comprehensive role in shaping automation solutions. The focus on "reusable software modules" and "modular product platforms" points towards a strategic objective of standardization and scalability within RHI Magnesita's global operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or a comparable technical field. Experience:

• 2-5 years of practical experience in PLC programming and industrial automation, ideally within machinery, plant engineering, or heavy industry sectors. Required Skills:

• Proficient in PLC programming and industrial automation principles.

• Strong understanding of common PLC development environments and programming languages according to IEC 61131-3 standards.

• Knowledge of industrial communication systems (e.g., Profinet, EtherCAT), machine interfaces, and system integration principles.

• Experience in designing intuitive HMI and UX solutions for operational interfaces.

• Ability to translate business and customer requirements into technical specifications.

• Fluency in English is mandatory. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific PLC platforms such as Siemens TIA Portal, Beckhoff TwinCAT, B&R Automation Studio, or CODESYS.

• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols like OPC UA and MQTT.

• Knowledge of safety PLCs, simulation, and virtual commissioning techniques.

• Exposure to robotics, industrial cybersecurity, and modular machine architectures.

• Experience working with OEMs and technology partners.

• German or additional languages are considered an advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Nice to have" section strongly suggests a preference for candidates with hands-on experience in leading industrial automation platforms, indicating that exposure to these specific tools will be a significant advantage. The emphasis on both PLC programming and UX/HMI design points to a need for engineers who can bridge the gap between control logic and user interaction.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a track record of developing and implementing PLC control systems for industrial machinery or processes, showcasing complexity and successful deployment.

• Provide examples of HMI/UX designs that prioritize user-friendliness, safety, and operational efficiency.

• Showcase instances where functional concepts and reusable software modules were defined for platform development or standardization.

• Include case studies detailing the translation of business or customer requirements into robust technical specifications and automation solutions.

• Present evidence of technology evaluation, testing, and qualification, including recommendations for integration or make-or-buy decisions. Process Documentation:

• Documented workflows for PLC programming, including version control, testing methodologies, and code review processes.

• Examples of HMI/UX design documentation, user flow diagrams, and usability testing reports.

• Records of functional concept development, interface definitions, and software module reusability strategies.

• Evidence of requirements engineering processes, including stakeholder engagement and technical specification creation.

• Documentation related to the evaluation and integration of third-party automation solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an Automation Engineer role, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills. Candidates should prepare to showcase projects that highlight their ability to develop complete automation solutions, from control logic to user interface, and to articulate the problem-solving and decision-making processes involved.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The salary for this position is competitive and will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and alignment with current market values in Switzerland. A typical range for an Automation Engineer with 2-5 years of experience in the Hünenberg area might fall between CHF 90,000 - CHF 120,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary package.

• Opportunity for mobile working.

• Flexible, trust-based working hours.

• Generous 6 weeks of holiday per year.

• Free parking available at the location.

• Regular team events and company activities to foster team spirit.

• Bonus program participation.

• Comprehensive social benefits package.

• Encouragement and requirement for internal and external further training.

• Modern and ergonomic workstations.

• Access to a technologically well-equipped test workshop.

• Opportunities to shape future engineering methods. Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are 40.5 hours per week.

• Flexible, trust-based working hours are offered, allowing for a good work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for Automation Engineers in Switzerland. Actual compensation will be negotiated based on individual qualifications and company-specific salary structures. The emphasis on "global benefits" alongside local ones suggests a consistent employee value proposition across RHI Magnesita's international locations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Refractories (essential products, technologies, and services for high-temperature industrial processes). The company serves critical sectors like steel, cement, and glass.

Company Size: Approximately 20,000 employees globally. This indicates a large, established multinational corporation with significant resources and a global reach.

Founded: RHI Magnesita was formed in 2019 through the merger of RHI and Magnesita. This recent formation implies a dynamic environment where integration and modernization are ongoing priorities.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the "PLC & UX Controls, Process Automation skill pool" within a "Competence Center." This suggests a specialized team focused on developing and disseminating best practices in automation engineering.

• The team likely comprises engineers with diverse specializations in automation, control systems, and user interface design.

• Collaboration is expected with internal teams (e.g., product development, production, regional organizations) and external partners (e.g., OEMs, technology providers). Methodology:

• Emphasis on developing robust control solutions, intuitive user interfaces, and scalable automation architectures.

• Commitment to a modern engineering environment utilizing model-based development and automated PLC code generation.

• Focus on creating modular, standardized, and reusable platforms for global deployment.

• Exploration and integration of AI-supported engineering methods.

• Technology evaluation, testing, and qualification for informed integration or make-or-buy decisions.

Company Website: https://www.rhimagnesita.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's position as a global leader in refractories and its focus on sustainability and "shaping tomorrow's world" suggest a culture that values innovation, long-term impact, and responsible industrial practices. The recent merger indicates a potential for a culture that balances established expertise with a forward-looking approach to integration and growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as Mid-Level (2-5 years of experience), focusing on engineering specialized automation solutions. It requires a blend of hands-on technical execution and contribution to strategic platform development.

Reporting Structure: The role is within a "skill pool" and "Competence Center," implying reporting to a team lead or manager responsible for automation engineering specialists. Collaboration will extend across various departments and potentially global teams, requiring strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

Operations Impact: The Automation Engineer will directly influence the efficiency, safety, and scalability of RHI Magnesita's industrial processes and products. By developing standardized and reusable automation architectures, the role contributes to operational consistency, cost reduction, and faster deployment of new technologies across the company's global manufacturing footprint. The focus on future engineering methods and AI also positions this role to drive significant long-term technological advancements.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific PLC platforms, industrial communication protocols, or advanced automation techniques (e.g., AI in engineering, cybersecurity).

• Platform Development: Progress to leading the design and implementation of more complex modular product platforms, influencing RHI Magnesita's global automation strategy.

• Technical Leadership: Transition into senior engineering roles, mentoring junior engineers, and taking ownership of critical automation projects.

• Cross-functional Roles: Opportunities to move into roles focusing on project management, systems architecture, or R&D within the broader engineering or manufacturing technology divisions.

• Continuous Learning: Access to internal and external training programs, conferences, and potentially certifications to stay abreast of evolving automation technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role's placement within a "Competence Center" and "skill pool" suggests a structured approach to talent development, with clear pathways for technical growth and specialization within automation engineering. The company's emphasis on shaping future engineering methods indicates a strong commitment to professional development in cutting-edge technologies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Hünenberg, Switzerland, with a hybrid work arrangement. This suggests a mix of on-site work at the company's facilities and remote work. The "modern and ergonomic workstations" and "technologically well-equipped test workshop" indicate a well-resourced and comfortable working environment.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Hünenberg, Switzerland (CH, 6331). The job description mentions free parking and excellent public transport connections, highlighting accessibility.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role involves close collaboration with internal teams and external partners, suggesting an environment that fosters teamwork and knowledge sharing. The mention of team events further supports this.

• Technology Access: Engineers will have access to modern workstations and a well-equipped test workshop, enabling hands-on development and testing of automation solutions.

• Innovation Focus: The opportunity to "shape future engineering methods" points to a dynamic workspace where innovation and the adoption of new technologies are encouraged.

Work Schedule:

• The standard workweek is 40.5 hours.

• Flexible, trust-based working hours are offered, providing autonomy and promoting a healthy work-life balance, which is beneficial for deep technical work and analytical tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work arrangement, combined with flexible hours and a well-equipped workspace, suggests a modern approach to employee well-being and productivity. The emphasis on collaboration and innovation within the Competence Center environment will be key aspects of the daily work experience.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application and resume, likely focusing on technical qualifications, experience with PLC programming, and HMI/UX design.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions on PLC programming principles, IEC 61131-3, industrial communication, and automation system design. Candidates may be asked to solve hypothetical problems or discuss past projects in detail.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of a candidate's portfolio, showcasing specific projects related to PLC control systems, HMI/UX development, and process automation. This is a critical stage to demonstrate practical application of skills.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of collaboration skills, problem-solving approach, adaptability, and alignment with RHI Magnesita's values, particularly regarding innovation and continuous improvement.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader or hiring manager to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase PLC Projects: Include detailed examples of PLC code logic, system architecture diagrams, and descriptions of the challenges overcome. Highlight the specific PLC platform used and the programming languages.

• HMI/UX Design Examples: Present screenshots or mockups of HMI screens, explaining the design rationale, focus on user experience, and how safety and efficiency were prioritized.

• Process Automation Case Studies: Detail projects where you contributed to improving industrial processes through automation. Quantify improvements in efficiency, uptime, safety, or cost savings where possible.

• Requirements to Solution: Clearly articulate how you translated requirements into technical specifications and then into a functional automation solution.

• Technology Evaluation: If applicable, include examples of technology assessments, including the criteria used and the outcome of make-or-buy decisions.

• Modularity & Reusability: Highlight any projects where you focused on creating modular or reusable components, demonstrating an understanding of scalable platform development.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for technical challenges that might involve troubleshooting a PLC program, designing a basic control sequence, or outlining an approach to integrate a new system.

• Practice explaining complex technical concepts clearly and concisely.

• Prepare to discuss your thought process for problem-solving, especially in scenarios involving system integration or optimizing process flows.

• Research RHI Magnesita's products and industry to understand the context of their automation needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "Competence Center" and "skill pool" suggests that the interview process will likely scrutinize candidates' ability to contribute to standardized, reusable solutions. Demonstrating an understanding of software lifecycle management, requirements engineering, and technology evaluation will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• PLC Development Environments:

  • Siemens TIA Portal (highly preferred)
  • Beckhoff TwinCAT (highly preferred)
  • B&R Automation Studio (highly preferred)
  • CODESYS (highly preferred)
  • Other IEC 61131-3 compliant environments.

• HMI/UX Design Tools: Specific tools not listed, but candidates should be proficient in creating intuitive interfaces for industrial control systems.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, candidates will likely utilize system diagnostics and logs for troubleshooting and performance monitoring. Experience with data visualization for process monitoring may be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Industrial Communication Protocols:

  • Profinet
  • EtherCAT
  • OPC UA
  • MQTT

• Other Relevant Technologies:

  • Safety PLCs

  • Simulation and Virtual Commissioning tools

  • Robotics

  • Industrial Cybersecurity practices

  • Modular Machine Architectures

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Nice to have" section is a direct indicator of the expected technology stack. Candidates with hands-on experience in the listed PLC platforms and communication protocols will have a significant advantage. The mention of "model-based development" and "automated PLC code generation" suggests a forward-looking approach to software development, implying a need for engineers open to adopting advanced methodologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Future Shaping: A strong drive to explore and implement new engineering methods, including AI-supported approaches, and to contribute to the company's technological advancement.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working closely with internal teams and external partners, valuing shared knowledge and collective problem-solving. Participation in team events reinforces this.

• Efficiency & Standardization: Focus on developing modular, standardized, and reusable platforms to ensure consistency and scalability across global operations.

• Quality & Reliability: Commitment to developing robust control systems and intuitive user interfaces that ensure safe and efficient operation.

• Continuous Improvement: Dedication to supporting the entire product lifecycle, including testing, commissioning, documentation, and ongoing enhancements.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with various departments, including product development, production, and regional organizations, to gather requirements and deploy solutions.

• Partnership with External Entities: Working effectively with OEMs and technology partners to evaluate and integrate external solutions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a "Competence Center" and "skill pool" implies a culture where knowledge is shared, best practices are disseminated, and collective learning is encouraged.

• Process-Oriented: A structured approach to engineering, from requirements gathering to testing and lifecycle support, with an emphasis on documentation and methodical development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on "shaping tomorrow's world" and innovation, combined with the structured nature of a "Competence Center," suggests a culture that values both forward-thinking and disciplined execution. Candidates should be prepared to articulate how they contribute to both aspects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Integrating Diverse Systems: Bridging the gap between different PLC platforms, industrial communication protocols, and legacy systems to create a cohesive automation architecture.

• Balancing Innovation with Standardization: Developing cutting-edge automation solutions while ensuring they are modular, reusable, and deployable across a global, diverse manufacturing base.

• Adopting New Methodologies: Transitioning to and implementing modern engineering practices like model-based development and automated code generation, potentially encountering resistance or requiring significant training.

• Global Deployment Complexity: Ensuring automation solutions are adaptable and supportable across various regional sites with potentially different infrastructure and operational nuances.

• Staying Ahead of Technology: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in automation, AI, and cybersecurity to ensure RHI Magnesita's technologies remain competitive and secure.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced PLC & Automation Training: Opportunities to gain expertise in specific platforms (Siemens TIA, Beckhoff, B&R, CODESYS) and advanced topics like safety PLCs, simulation, and virtual commissioning.

• Exposure to AI in Engineering: Involvement in projects exploring AI-supported engineering methods and automated code generation.

• Cross-Disciplinary Skill Development: Learning about industrial cybersecurity, robotics, and modular machine architectures.

• Global Project Involvement: Participating in projects with international scope, providing exposure to diverse operational environments and engineering practices.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant industry events and pursuing professional certifications to enhance skills and knowledge.

• Mentorship: Potential for guidance from senior engineers within the Competence Center, fostering technical and career growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents a significant opportunity to be at the forefront of industrial automation innovation within a global leader. The challenges are framed as growth opportunities, emphasizing continuous learning and the chance to shape future engineering practices.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex PLC control system you designed. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure its robustness and safety?" (Focus on detailing architecture, logic, testing, and problem-solving).

• "How would you approach designing an HMI/UX for a new automated process to ensure optimal user experience and operational efficiency?" (Highlight user-centered design principles, safety considerations, and iterative feedback).

• "Discuss your experience with modular product platforms and reusable software modules. How do you ensure scalability and maintainability in your automation designs?" (Emphasize modularity, interface definition, and documentation).

• "Imagine you need to integrate a new technology from an external vendor. What is your process for evaluation, testing, and making a recommendation for integration or a make-or-buy decision?" (Outline a structured evaluation framework).

• "How do you stay current with advancements in automation technology, such as AI in engineering or industrial cybersecurity?" (Showcase continuous learning habits and research methods). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about RHI Magnesita's role in the refractories industry and our commitment to shaping tomorrow's world?" (Research their sustainability initiatives and market position).

• "How do you see your skills in PLC programming and UX design contributing to our Competence Center's goals of standardization and innovation?" (Align your skills with the company's strategic objectives).

• "Describe your experience working in a collaborative environment, especially with cross-functional teams or external partners." (Provide specific examples of successful collaboration). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your solution (including technical details like PLC logic, HMI design), the technologies used, and the measurable outcomes (efficiency, safety, cost savings).

• Highlight Reusability: If applicable, specifically call out any components or designs that were developed with reusability or modularity in mind.

• Explain Your Decision-Making: Be ready to articulate why you made certain technical choices, especially regarding platform selection, communication protocols, or design decisions.

• Visual Aids: Use diagrams, screenshots, or short video clips to illustrate your work effectively.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the success and impact of your automation solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on a "Competence Center" and "skill pool," interviewers will likely probe for a systematic approach to engineering, an understanding of best practices, and the ability to contribute to standardized solutions. The portfolio presentation is critical for demonstrating practical application and problem-solving capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Automation Engineer position:

• Submit your application online through the provided link on the RHI Magnesita careers portal. Ensure your application is in English.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience with PLC programming, industrial automation, IEC 61131-3, HMI/UX design, and any specific technologies mentioned (Siemens TIA Portal, Beckhoff TwinCAT, etc.). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest projects that demonstrate PLC development, HMI/UX design, and process automation improvements. Be ready to discuss the technical details, challenges, and outcomes of each project.

• Practice Interview Responses: Review common interview questions for automation engineers and prepare detailed answers, focusing on your technical expertise, problem-solving approach, and collaborative skills. Practice explaining your portfolio projects clearly and concisely.

• Research RHI Magnesita: Understand the company's industry, global presence, commitment to innovation, and sustainability goals to articulate your interest and how you can contribute.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.