The Controls Engineer performs a diverse range of engineering tasks focused on planning, evaluating, designing, developing, and adapting control systems and technologies.
The primary aim is to produce new products, enhance existing ones, and improve productivity while reducing manufacturing costs.
This role emphasizes automation and controls for multifunction machining centers, including turning, milling, drilling, and grinding. Collaboration with engineers, maintenance, logistics, manufacturing, and quality teams is essential to achieve optimal manufacturing objectives.
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Establish and maintain engineering and equipment standards for automated and control systems.
• Design, configure, program, and test PLC/HMI applications.
• Implement PLC and HMI programming standards across manufacturing equipment.
• Conduct panel set-up and testing, including IP addressing and I/O checkout.
• Develop project-specific documentation: I/O lists, cause & effect diagrams, control system panel designs, network architectures, electrical schematics, and mechanical designs.
• Select and procure materials for control systems, ensuring vendor compliance with specifications.
• Act as a subject matter expert on automation for CAPEX projects and oversee contracted integrators or suppliers.
• Collaborate with operations teams to create automation Scope of Work documents aimed at improving equipment safety, availability, quality, and cycle time.
• Work with purchasing, engineering, and project management to ensure timely assembly of automation systems.
• Assist and oversee equipment build, debug, and FAT in the Capital Projects Assembly Area.
• Travel to multiple sites for design requirements, installation, set-up, and debugging of new equipment.
• Initiate and investigate cost reduction proposals, compile information, and implement actionable recommendations.
• Oversee assigned cost reduction and process improvement projects.
• Provide technical support to other departments as required.
• Lead or participate in developing corrective actions for identified problems.
• Manage and perform additional duties and projects as assigned.
Education/Experience:
• Preferred: 5+ years of relevant experience in an automation role within a manufacturing environment or similar.
• Preferred: PMI Certified.
• BS in Engineering or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong background in PLC and HMI programming, low voltage controls, three-phase power distribution, vision systems, electronic sensors, pneumatics, hydraulics, and servo control.
• Experience programming or interfacing with robotic systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word).
• Working knowledge of manufacturing disciplines, cost control, planning, and industry safety regulations.
• Strong understanding of process improvement tools and techniques.
• Proven ability to identify complex problems and develop effective corrective action plans.
• Results-oriented professional capable of achieving business objectives through initiative.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while effectively sourcing necessary resources.
• Strong oral and written communication skills
