Controls/Automation Engineer Job

Primary location: Lancaster, Pennsylvania 
Relocation offered: No 
Employment status: Full-Time 
Travel: 11%-25% 
Non-compete: No 

The estimated base salary range for this role is $95,000 to $115,000 per year.  
Individual pay is based upon location, skills and expertise, experience and other relevant factors

 

 Controls/Automation Engineer

 

Armstrong World Industries has an opportunity for a Project / Sr. Project Engineer focused on advancing manufacturing performance through the integration of mechanical systems, data analytics, and AI-driven solutions.

This role operates at the intersection of manufacturing, digital technology, and advanced analytics—driving measurable improvements in plant productivity, reliability, and decision-making. It is an operationally connected role requiring strong plant engagement, cross-functional collaboration, and hands-on problem-solving to bring digital solutions into real-world manufacturing environments.

 

 

What You’ll Be Doing

 

Digital Innovation & Advanced Analytics

• Lead the identification and deployment of AI, data analytics, and modeling solutions across multiple manufacturing plants.
• Develop diagnostic, predictive, and optimization models to improve performance and decision-making.
• Support and scale technologies such as process monitoring, automated alignment systems, and intelligent detection/measurement tools.
• Stay current with emerging technologies in AI, machine learning, and smart manufacturing.

 

Plant Engagement & Implementation

 

• Partner directly with plant teams to identify high-value opportunities and translate them into actionable solutions.
• Pilot, implement, and troubleshoot digital and analytical solutions in real manufacturing environments.
• Integrate mechanical systems knowledge with digital tools to enhance equipment performance and process capability.
• Support adoption of new technologies and ensure solutions deliver measurable business impact.

 

Project Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration

 

• Lead or contribute to cross-functional projects across R&D, manufacturing, automation, and external partners.
• Manage multiple concurrent initiatives, ensuring prioritization and successful execution.
• Translate complex technical solutions into clear, actionable business value for stakeholders.
• Contribute to AI ideation, innovation sessions, and technology scouting efforts.

 

 

What Will Make You Successful

 

• Ability to operate in a fast-paced, operationally intensive environment with strong plant interaction and hands-on engagement.
• Strong capability to translate real manufacturing problems into analytical, digital, or AI-driven solutions.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects while balancing technical depth and business priorities.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to connect technical outputs to measurable business value.
• Ability to influence stakeholders across operations, engineering, and leadership teams.
• Practical mindset—able to move from concept → pilot → implementation → scale.
• Comfortable working both on the plant floor and in data/analytics environments, bridging the gap between theory and execution.

 

 

What Makes You Stand Out

 

• Experience applying AI/ML or advanced analytics in manufacturing or industrial environments.
• Strong programming or data analytics background (e.g., Python, SQL, Power BI, Minitab).
• Experience with simulation and modeling tools (e.g., FEA, ANSYS, Autodesk, GaBi, Odeon).
• Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher).
• Experience with Agile development methodologies.
• Hands-on mechanical aptitude with ability to prototype and work with equipment.
• Famil