Principal Research & Development Engineer

Foods you love. Brands you trust. And a career that empowers you to grow.


At Nestlé USA, we’re all working towards the same goal – to delight and deliver for our consumers. With a rich portfolio of beloved brands, including DiGiorno, Toll House, and Coffee mate, in 97% of U.S. households, we have a unique opportunity – and responsibility – to be there for every moment in our consumers’ lives.

Joining Nestlé means becoming part of an inclusive workplace that inspires innovation, encourages strategic thinking and creativity, and celebrates your achievements. No matter where you work within the organization, you are empowered to challenge the status quo, embrace risk-taking, and pioneer new ideas. Our supportive and collaborative environment encourages bold ambitions and continuous learning so that everyone can grow and thrive.

Our Nestlé Research and Development Center develops for Nestlé worldwide, new products, processes and packaging concepts in the areas of Milk, plant-based and Nutrition products. This includes various process and filling technologies for liquid, powder or sterile products. In addition, it also provides technical assistance and engineering support for major Capital Investment Projects (CAPEX) for our factories. Our R&D Center has locations in Switzerland and Ohio. Relocation assistance can be provided if needed.

POSITION SUMMARY:

As a Principal Engineer based in our Cleveland, Ohio area Nestle location we are seeking a forward-thinking Principal Engineer to lead the design, development, and deployment of next-generation automation and digital solutions, from R&D pilot lines to full-scale factories. This role combines expertise in automation, process engineering, and digital transformation to deliver full-scale automated processes and advanced process control. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to implement Automation and Digital Solutions that enhance operational efficiency, product quality, and sustainability.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Architect and standardize automation and control systems (PLC/SCADA: Rockwell, AVEVA, Siemens)
• Develop, validate, and deploy robotic and AGV solutions, including MES/OT IT integration
• Develop full-scale automated processes and automation concepts
• Build digital twins and simulation models (e.g., FlexSim)
• Deliver and develop advanced process control and predictive analytics
• Develop and deploy AI solutions for manufacturing optimization
• Define global standards and ensure functional safety
• Manage OEM/SI partners to develop and deploy R&D and scale-up projects
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to embed intelligence into manufacturing workflows
• Ensure compliance with food safety, cybersecurity, and data governance standards

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Automation, Controls, Mechatronics, or related field required; Masters in Science preferred
• 10+ years in automation/controls with multi-site or pilot-to-plant experience
• Expertise in at least two major automation stacks (Rockwell, AVEVA, Siemens) plus robotics/AGV integration
• Proven track record in Industry 4.0, digital twin/discrete event simulation (preferred FlexSim), and machine learning/advanced process control deployments
• Strong knowledge of industrial communications and OT/IT integration
• Experience with food processing, chemical, pharmaceutical, or other process-related industries

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It is our business imperative to remain a very inclusive workplace.


To our veterans and separated service members, you're at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestlé. The skills you've gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role. In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities. Nestlé seeks such skilled and qualified individuals to share our mission where you’ll join a cohort of others who have chosen to call Nestlé home.

The Nestlé Companies are equal employment opportunity employers. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you may require any special accommodations in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Contact us at [email protected] or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator: 1-800-321-6467.

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