Controls Engineer; Automation

Controls Engineer (Automation)

We are seeking a Controls Engineer (Automation) to design, develop, program and commission control systems for industrial machinery. The ideal candidate will deliver robust PLC/HMI solutions, integrate sensors, motion control, pneumatics and robotics, and support OEM equipment installations. This role combines hands-on electrical design and panel work with site commissioning and troubleshooting to ensure safe, reliable automation performance and continuous improvement of production systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop control system architectures for new and retrofit machinery, focusing on PLC and HMI solutions.
• Program, test and debug PLC logic (preferably Allen-Bradley) and develop HMI screens to optimize operator interaction and diagnostics.
• Create and review electrical schematics, I/O lists and panel layouts; produce drawings using AutoCAD and other CAD tools.
• Integrate sensors, actuators, motion control drives, pneumatics and robotic systems into cohesive control strategies.
• Perform Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT), Site Acceptance Tests (SAT) and on-site commissioning; diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical and software issues during start-up.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical and manufacturing teams and OEMs to ensure seamless integration and meet performance targets.
• Develop and maintain clear documentation including control narratives, wiring diagrams, program comments, and maintenance procedures.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for production issues, continuous improvement projects and root cause analysis.
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety standards, electrical codes and best engineering practices.
• Train operators and maintenance staff on system operation, troubleshooting and preventive maintenance.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years of experience in controls engineering for industrial machinery, automation systems or OEM equipment.
• Hands-on programming experience with PLC platforms (Allen-Bradley/ Rockwell preferred) and familiarity with Ladder Logic and Structured Text.
• Experience developing HMI applications and diagnostics for operators and maintenance teams.
• Strong electrical skills including reading/creating schematics, wiring diagrams and terminal layouts; proficiency with AutoCAD or similar tools.
• Knowledge of motion control, servo/stepper drives, sensors, encoders, pneumatics and basic robotics integration.
• Proven experience commissioning, debugging and optimizing machinery in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Ability to perform electrical panel assembly oversight and work with OEMs on system modifications.
• Willingness to travel to customer sites and work in shop/field environments; certifications such as EIT or electrical license are a plus.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• ESOP
• 401(k)
• PTO and Holidays

For this position you must be currently authorized to work in the United States. We do not sponsor for this position.