Job Description

Description

Summary:

The Operations & Controls Engineer ensures the reliability, efficiency, and performance of product testing systems and control logic in the laboratory environment. This role combines traditional lab operations support—maintaining and improving test equipment—with expertise in PLC programming, automation, and electrical troubleshooting. The role involves close collaboration with production, IT, and engineering teams to enhance testing processes, resolve equipment faults, and drive process improvements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Lab Operations & Engineering Support

• Oversee the maintenance, functionality, and calibration of laboratory equipment and testing instruments.

• Plan and manage maintenance schedules, equipment repairs, and upgrade projects.

• Investigate and resolve issues related to equipment, software, or product-test interactions.

• Provide engineering support for test reactors, quality testing areas, and test setup optimization.

• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards and operational protocols.

Controls Logic & PLC Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot faults in PLC-controlled systems; analyze HMI/SCADA alarms and perform root-cause analysis.

• Program, maintain, and optimize PLC control logic using ladder logic, structured text, or function block diagrams (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.).

• Develop and document IO maps, control sequences, and automation workflows.

• Interface PLCs with peripheral devices such as sensors, actuators, VFDs, safety circuits, and SCADA/HMI systems.

• Support software and communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus) for lab automation integration.

Continuous Improvement & Project Leadership

• Lead improvement projects for lab processes and control systems to increase efficiency, reliability, and testing quality.

• Work with IT and software support to monitor system performance, ensure data reliability, and resolve control system software issues.

• Identify and implement solutions to improve real-time troubleshooting and minimize downtime.

Additional Duties:

• Manage special projects and other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Knowledge:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or related Engineering field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in an engineering or lab automation environment.

• Demonstrated proficiency in electrical troubleshooting and interpreting schematics.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Self-driven with the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects independently.

• Skilled in PLC logic troubleshooting and HMI/SCADA system support.

Preferred Skills and Knowledge:

• Experience with Honeywell, AutomationDirect, or other PLC platforms.

• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols and control networks.

• Hands-on experience with SCADA/HMI software (e.g., FactoryTalk, Ignition, WinCC).

• Exposure to lab testing environments or quality engineering processes.

• Strong aptitude for implementing automation and process control improvements.

Working Conditions:

• May involve exposure to dusty or noisy environments.

• Field work in a lab setting with regular exposure to test equipment and utilities.

Physical Requirements:

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, and climbing ladders or stairs.

• Ability to lift, push, or carry up to 40 pounds.

• Occasional desk/computer work for extended periods.

 Work Schedule: 

• Monday - Friday, 7:00am- 4:00pm.