Company Overview
As a key member of Raute’s Services group, the Automation Service Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring customer success and long-term satisfaction with Raute’s systems. In this role, you will lead the installation, start-up, and commissioning of automation equipment while building trusted, long-term partnerships with customers across North America. You will work closely with customer teams to optimize system performance, support full lifecycle utilization, and maximize the value of Raute’s solutions from commissioning through end of life.
This is a remote, field-based role, operating from a home office with regular travel to customer sites across North America (minimum 50% travel). The role offers a high degree of independence, hands-on technical engagement, and direct customer interaction. Strong experience with Beckhoff and/or Allen Bradley PLC software is required for this role.
If you thrive in a customer-facing, technical environment, enjoy solving complex challenges in the field, and take pride in delivering measurable value through strong relationships and system performance- we’d love to hear from you.
In this role you
- Lead the start-up, troubleshooting, corrective action, and preventive maintenance of veneer processing and automation equipment, ensuring optimal system performance through tuning, optimization, and root-cause analysis,
- Program and modify PLC and HMI code in collaboration with Automation Project Engineers to support system functionality, upgrades, and customer requirements,
- Conduct system performance testing and diagnostics by measuring and analyzing key process variables to validate operation and identify improvement opportunities,
- Provide practical feedback into process and controls design to support continuous improvement and system optimization,
- Deliver effective operator and maintenance training to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable use of equipment,
- Leverage internal technical resources and cross-functional teams to address customer support needs and resolve complex issues efficiently,
- Track preventive maintenance activities, system health, and upgrade requirements to support long-term equipment reliability and lifecycle performance,
- Contribute ideas, improvements, and best practices that enhance service efficiency, customer outcomes, and overall performance of the Services organization,
- Manage all service-related administration, including accurate and timely completion of service reports and CRM documentation,
- Actively support and drive Raute’s vision of building the industry’s leading service and support organization,
To succeed in this role, you should have
- Degree in electrical engineering, or diploma in electrical technology, or equivalent trade experience in control systems and industrial automation software,
- Strong understanding of PLC and HMI systems (Beckhoff, Allen Bradley, CLX, Siemens, RSView or RSLogix) in both programming and troubleshooting. Beckhoff and/or Allen Bradley experience is a must
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in an industrial equipment environment working with wood processing machinery
- Proven ability to diagnose repair, and resolve complex system and equipment issues using a practical and hands on approach,
- Mechanical aptitude with an ability to troubleshoot issues such as mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic components and systems,
- Willingness and ability to travel to customer sites locally throughout Canada and the U.S,
- Must possess a valid passport and driver’s license.
Attributes
- Strong communication and active listening skills to clearly understand and resolve customer issues,
- Demonstrates professionalism integrity and respect in all interactions, with the ability to work collaboratively and exercise sound judgement and discretion,
- Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, with a structured and practical approach to resolving complex issues,
- Proven customer-oriented skills in a technical service environment,
- Ability to quickly establish trust and maintain rapport with others,
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, while maintaining focus and effectiveness under pressure,
- Strong operational and organizational planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities,
- Demonstrated reliability in meeting commitments and effectively prioritizing workload to meet deadlines,
- Genuine interest in expanding skills base to include cross training in other applications,
- Ability to work independently while remaining connected and accountable to the broader team,
- Strong command of the English language, both spoken and written.
Join Our Team at Raute!
At Raute, we offer more than a job. We offer a meaningful career in an industry that makes a difference. We provide a supportive and innovative work environment where employee well-being and professional growth are priorities.
Our approach embraces a total rewards approach, which includes both monetary and non-monetary benefits. This holistic concept encompasses everything from base salary, learning and development opportunities, work-life integration, and other intangible benefits that contribute to overall employee satisfaction and engagement.
We recognize the value of work-life balance and offer flexibility through our hybrid working model. However, this role is hands-on and highly collaborative, requiring a consistent on-site presence to support in-person team engagement and operational needs. While some flexibility in hours is available, success in this position depends on active participation in office-based work and close collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders.
Join Raute – Where Innovation Meets Opportunity
At Raute, we build more than machines. We contribute to shaping the future of the Engineered Wood Products industry. We are a community of innovators, creators, and problem-solvers.
As a forward-looking technology leader and trusted partner in the Engineered Wood Product sector, we help our customers maximize raw material efficiency and support sustainable operations through data-driven innovations. With over 115 years of experience and a global presence, we are a leader in veneer, plywood, and LVL industries. Our vision is to be the partner to future-proof the wood industry. With our innovative solutions, we drive change and promote a resource-efficient society. Raute’s head office and main production are in Lahti, Finland, with additional manufacturing sites in Kajaani, Canada, and the USA.
Sustainability is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to leading the industry towards a more sustainable future in engineered wood products by creating long-term value for our customers, society, and the environment.
Our culture is built on strong values: Creating Customer Success, Promoting Development, Acting Sustainably, and Achieving Together. These values guide our daily work and describe the people who succeed at Raute. We believe that every employee has a voice and their contributions are valued. We encourage open communication and collaboration, ensuring that everyone's ideas and perspectives are heard and respected.
Join us and be part of a company that not only values your professional development but also cares about your well-being. Together, we can achieve great things and make a positive impact on the world.
Learn more about Raute at Raute.com.
Raute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions at Raute are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We have a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of discrimination, harassment, or unfair treatment. All employees are treated with dignity and respect, ensuring a safe and equitable workplace for everyone.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $70,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year
Education:
Experience:
- Industrial Equipment environment: 5 years (Required)
- wood processing machinery: 1 year (Required)
Willingness to travel:
Work Location: On the road
