Robotics Engineer

Location: Middlebury

Job Title:

Controls Engineer

Job Description

This Controls Engineer role supports a new automated shelving production line for a leading manufacturer of commercial shelving and racking systems. You will focus on supporting, modifying, and optimizing PLC and HMI programming, with a strong emphasis on troubleshooting and debugging control systems on the manufacturing floor. This position offers significant growth potential, exposure to new automation equipment, and a clear path into leadership within a stable, market-leading organization.

Responsibilities

+ Support, modify, and optimize PLC programs for a new automated shelving production line.

+ Troubleshoot and debug control systems to resolve production and automation issues quickly and effectively.

+ Work extensively with Allen-Bradley PLCs, including programming and diagnostics using RSLogix 5000.

+ Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot HMI systems using Factory Talk and related tools.

+ Collaborate closely with production support teams and maintenance technicians to identify root causes of equipment and controls problems.

+ Interpret and work from electrical schematics and controls wiring diagrams to assist with troubleshooting and repairs.

+ Interface Allen-Bradley PLCs with Fanuc controls to ensure seamless integration and reliable operation of automated equipment.

+ Participate in commissioning, testing, and validation of new automation equipment and control systems on the production floor.

+ Recommend and implement improvements to controls logic, safety interlocks, and system performance to increase uptime and efficiency.

+ Provide technical guidance and support to operations and maintenance personnel on controls-related issues and best practices.

+ Document program changes, configuration updates, and troubleshooting activities to maintain accurate records and support knowledge sharing.

+ Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on automation, reliability, and process optimization.

Essential Skills

+ 10+ years of experience in controls and automation engineering within a manufacturing or industrial environment.

+ Strong proficiency in PLC programming, with hands-on experience using Allen-Bradley PLCs.

+ Extensive experience with RSLogix 5000 for programming, modifying, and troubleshooting PLC code.

+ Practical experience interfacing Allen-Bradley PLCs with Fanuc controls.

+ Solid understanding of controls wiring and electrical systems sufficient to troubleshoot issues alongside maintenance technicians.

+ Hands-on experience with HMI development and troubleshooting, including Factory Talk HMI platforms.

+ Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and debug complex control systems in a production environment.

+ Experience in controls engineering or electrical engineering, with the ability to read and interpret electrical and controls schematics.

+ Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently on the manufacturing floor.

+ Effective communication skills to collaborate with production, maintenance, and engineering teams.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Engineering degree is preferred, particularly in electrical engineering, controls engineering, or a related field.

+ Experience working in high-volume manufacturing environments, especially with sheet metal or similar production processes.

+ Familiarity with automation project work, including commissioning and integration of new equipment.

+ Interest in career growth into leadership roles within engineering or operations.

+ Ability to document technical work clearly and contribute to continuous improvement and standardization efforts.

+ Willingness to work hands-on on the production floor and engage directly with equipment and support teams.

Work Environment

The role is based in a large manufacturing facility that produces sheet metal shelving units commonly used in major retail stores. The building is older but has recently been expanded, and the new addition includes newly installed, modern automation equipment. Engineers spend most of their time on the production floor, working side by side with production support and maintenance teams while actively engaging with live equipment and ongoing projects.

The work environment is described as laid back and casual, with a flexible work schedule and a casual dress code. The company has been in operation since the mid-1950s and holds a dominant share of the shelving market, offering strong stability and long-term career opportunities. There is significant potential for growth and upward mobility, including movement from engineering roles into leadership positions.

The benefits structure is competitive, including paid holidays, accrued vacation, medical, dental, and vision coverage from the first day of employment, retirement savings with employer match, employee assistance and educational assistance programs, career development programs, and company bonus potential.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Middlebury, IN.

Pay and…