Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer - Fairfield

As a Controls Engineer, reporting to the Maintenance Manager, you’ll play a key role in shaping the automation and technology that power our candy production.

You’ll design, maintain, and optimize control systems that keep our equipment running efficiently, reliably, and safely, helping us deliver consistently high‑quality products. Working closely with maintenance, engineering, and production teams, you’ll troubleshoot complex systems, implement innovative solutions, and drive continuous improvement across the plant.

• Design, develop, and supervise all aspects of electrical control systems, equipment, and machinery.
• Manage the installation and support of PLC‑based hardware and software.
• Plan and manage new or modify existing installations to minimize waste of materials, improve quality, and reduce downtime.
• Identify and resolve malfunctions of equipment or systems, providing technical support and guidance to maintenance and production team members.
• Program PLCs (e.g., Allen‑Bradley, Siemens) using RSLogix 5000/500, Factory Talk Studio, and Rslinx; handle instrument programming and integration.
• Configure and design HMI/OIT systems (e.g., Allen Bradley, Siemens, Wonderware); program HMI and PLC ladder logic and integrate discrete/analog devices.
• Familiar with Industry Standards UL and CE.
• Familiar with Vision Systems (e.g., Eagle Vision, Keyence).
• Familiar with motion controllers/actuators (e.g., Yasakawa, ABB, Kinetix).
• Familiar with RS232/RS485, Profibus DP/PA protocols, variable frequency drives, motor control centers, analog and digital signals, low‑to-medium‑power distribution systems.
• Provide hands‑on on‑site support to troubleshoot existing installations, PLCs, HMIs, instruments, and VFD issues.
• Read and understand electrical schematics, ladder logic programs, process flow diagrams, and process and instrumentation diagrams.

• Ability to prioritize, multi‑task, and meet deadlines.
• Sharp, quick, dedicated, and innovative problem solver.
• Core values of continuous self‑improvement.
• Organized, detail‑oriented, and able to think designs through completely.

• Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering, Engineering, or Business.
• 3 to 5 years of process‑industry experience with automation control, PLC ladder logic programming, HMI design and configuration.

Ability to walk and/or stand for prolonged periods; ability to bend, stoop, and reach.

This position requires knowledge and awareness of manufacturing and industrial sites. Protective gear will be required where appropriate. The role may require varying start times and weekend work depending on business needs.

At Ferrara, we’re proud to support our employees by providing comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, dental insurance, a 401(k), and paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The salary range for this role is $95,000 – $105,000 annually.