Controls Engineer

Kaiser Aluminum is known around the world for its superior quality. Our secret is what we put into it-innovative thinking, industry-leading reliability, and a world-class commitment to customer service. In short, the same qualities we look for in our people. We are looking for a Controls Engineer to join Kaiser Aluminum in Chandler, Arizona!

Requisition 1394 at

The Manufacturing Plant Engineer is responsible for maintaining, improving, and optimizing plant equipment and processes with a strong focus on electrical systems, automation, and PLC-based controls. This role provides technical leadership for troubleshooting, system upgrades, preventive maintenance, and continuous improvement initiatives to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient manufacturing operations.

What you will work on:

* Ensure the Building/Grounds/Equipment are maintained to promote a safe working environment.

* Ensure compliance of all maintenance requirements, facilities requirements, Federal, State, local applicable regulations, OSHA, EPA, Tribal, and City of Chandler are followed.

* Own and manage capital budget. Track spending against budget

* Communicate with internal & external personnel on any matter relevant to your job function; (Phone, e-mail, in person, by mail; etc.) as long as the communication does not violate Kaiser Aluminum's Code of Conduct.

* Solicit bids from contractors for new projects. Review proposals for completion & compliance with specifications & requirements.

* Monitor construction to ensure all specifications & requirements are met.

* Maintain working relationship with all utility companies e.g. (Gila River Power Authority & San Carlos Irrigation Project on plant power, Southwest Gas & maintenance requirements).

* Submit construction plans & building permit applications to Gila River Indian Community for review & approval. Arrange for permit fee payment after approval.

* Determine technical specifications for new equipment & solicit proposals from suppliers (ensuring conformance to specifications).

* Facilitate plant & equipment improvements (both equipment and process).

* Adhere to Chandler Business Process Narrative Sox Controls.

* Follow applicable Environmental, Quality, & Safety documents.

* Effectively manage and implement medium to high complexity multi-functional projects.

* Responsible for scheduling, budget management and facilitating of projects through all phases.

* Leverage and manage plant functional resources to successfully deliver project results.

* What you will bring to the position:

* Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).

* 3-7+ years of experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or production facility.

* Hands-on experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley preferred).

* Strong background in electrical systems (480V, controls, sensors, instrumentation).

* Ability to read electrical schematics and automation documentation.

* Analyze and design capital improvement projects through coordination with multiple departments and plant needs.

* Ensure all electrical and control system work complies with NFPA 70E, NEC, OSHA, and company standards.

* Lead or support safety system upgrades including interlocks, e-stops, machine guarding controls, and functional safety assessments.

* Participate in safety audits, incident investigations, and hazard mitigations.

* Troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair complex electrical and control-system issues across production equipment.

* Maintain and program PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.), HMIs, VFDs, servos, and industrial automation components.

* Ensure proper operation of electrical distribution systems, control panels, instrumentation, and sensors.

* Lead equipment upgrades, control system migrations, line improvements, and automation enhancements.

* Design, specify, and implement electrical/automation solutions to improve safety, quality, and throughput.

* Collaborate with maintenance, production, and engineering teams on capital projects and process optimization.

* Maintain documentation including electrical schematics, network diagrams, and PLC/HMI logic backups.

* Knowledge of federal, state, & tribal, regulations, laws & other government and corporate compliance programs.

* Must have 5+ years of experience in at least one area of mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic expertise.

* Have strong mechanical & electrical ability including understanding of machine operations & capabilities.

* Able to maintain and troubleshoot PLC controlled equipment.

* Understanding of AC drives and servo motors.

* Knowledge of natural gas combustion systems for ovens and furnaces.

* Knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic equipment.

* Excellent interpersonal skills & works as a team player effectively.

* Competence in problem solving, team building, planning and decision making

* Have an understanding of construction methods & materials.

* Strong effective communication skills, both verbal & written. Be able to…