Controls & Automation (Confidential)
Brief Job Summary
The Controls/Automation Engineer provides technical leadership in the design, development, and implementation of advanced manufacturing equipment and processes. This role is responsible for defining system specifications, evaluating technical feasibility, and validating automation solutions while driving innovation across new and existing production equipment.
The position places a strong emphasis on modern manufacturing technologies, including automation, robotics, digital manufacturing, and connected production systems, supporting continuous improvement and operational excellence initiatives.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Develop technical specifications for custom automation and controls projects and lead vendor evaluation and selection activities
- Coordinate equipment builds and oversee factory and site acceptance testing with third‑party integrators to ensure cost, schedule, and quality objectives are met
- Lead electrical and controls design for PLCs, HMIs, safety systems, robotics, and vision‑based applications
- Define, implement, and maintain a cohesive controls engineering strategy supporting both legacy operations and new equipment development
- Partner with Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, and Design teams to develop effective controls solutions that support product quality and production performance
- Establish, maintain, and enforce internal controls standards for both internally developed and externally sourced equipment
- Support training and technical instruction for operations and maintenance personnel to ensure effective use and sustainability of manufacturing systems
- Identify, evaluate, and implement emerging technologies that enhance quality, efficiency, reliability, and scalability
- Ensure accurate creation, organization, and control of electrical documentation, including schematics, manuals, and software assets
- Interface effectively with cross‑functional stakeholders at both technical and leadership levels
- Ensure compliance with applicable company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements
Education & Experience Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent technical discipline
- 10+ years of experience in controls engineering, automation, or manufacturing engineering environments
- Strong programming experience with Rockwell Automation platforms, including Studio 5000, FactoryTalk, and Kinetix motion control
- Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., Fanuc), CNC controllers, servo motor systems, and industrial vision solutions
- Proficiency in electrical schematic development and distributed control systems, including DeviceNet and EtherNet/IP
- Solid understanding of electrical codes, standards, and best practices
- Knowledge of Manufacturing IT systems, industrial networks, and production data applications
- Demonstrated ability to apply financial and business considerations when evaluating technical solutions
- Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and critical‑thinking skills with high attention to detail
- Proven ability to work independently, adapt quickly to change, and drive solutions in complex manufacturing environments
Why This Role
This is a highly visible technical leadership role offering the opportunity to influence automation strategy, modernize manufacturing systems, and mentor others while working on complex, high‑impact engineering challenges in a progressive manufacturing environment.
You should be proficient in:
- PLC Troubleshooting Skills
- Bachelor's Degree
- Electrical Schematics
- CNC Tooling
- CNC Machine Installation
- CAD Software
- Troubleshooting Industrial Automation Equipment
- Process Engineering
- PLC Programming Experience
- SCADA Experience
- Pneumatics Troubleshooting
- Powerhouse Operation
- Industrial Electrical Experience