Plant Controls Engineer

Overview

Teknor Apex is a privately held company founded in 1924, now operating across the U.S. and internationally. The company focuses on delivering customized compound solutions to customers worldwide.

The role is a PLC Controls Engineer, responsible for troubleshooting, designing, and optimizing complex machinery and automated systems in a manufacturing environment. This engineer will also manage new equipment installations, plant upgrades, and implement improvements to enhance safety, reliability, and efficiency across the Leominster facility. Additionally, the engineer will support the use of Inductive Automation’s Ignition SCADA platform and collaborate with production, maintenance, and engineering teams.

• Design, program, and maintain PLC control systems (primarily Allen‑Bradley).
• Develop, configure, and maintain Ignition SCADA projects for real‑time monitoring and data collection.
• Integrate Ignition with PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and plant databases to enable robust production data visualization.
• Identify, manage, and install new equipment and automation improvement projects from concept through commissioning.
• Evaluate existing processes and equipment to propose reliability, performance, and safety improvements.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers to integrate automation into new and existing machinery.
• Troubleshoot and repair control systems and mechanical equipment on the production floor.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives for process reliability, throughput, and quality.
• Prepare accurate documentation, including electrical schematics, ladder logic, and P&.
• Train maintenance and production personnel on system operation, Ignition dashboards, and safety procedures.
• Lead root‑cause analysis for equipment downtime or process inefficiencies.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards (OSHA, NFPA 70E, ISO, etc.) and company policies.
• Participate in plant and organization needs and support 24/7 operations.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or closely related engineering.
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing or industrial automation.
• Hands‑on expertise in PLC programming and troubleshooting (Allen‑Bradley preferred).
• Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of pneumatic, hydraulic, and mechanical systems.
• Experience integrating sensors, actuators, drives, and robotics into production machinery.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD Electrical or similar design tools.
• Familiarity with industrial networks (Ether Net/IP, Modbus, etc.) and control standards.
• Excellent problem‑solving, project management, and communication skills.

• Experience with Inductive Automation’s Ignition platform for SCADA, visualization, and control integration.
• Experience with robotic systems (Fanuc, ABB, etc.).
• Advanced Ignition scripting (Python) and module configuration.
• Knowledge of SCADA architectures, database design, and industrial IoT integration.
• Background in lean manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Ability to manage capital projects from concept to startup.

• Stand for long periods, squat, bend, twist, and turn as needed.
• Climb ladders and stairs multiple times throughout the shift.
• Lift up to 15 lb, possess good manual and mechanical dexterity.
• Wear required safety equipment and work in shop‑floor conditions (noise, heat, mechanical systems).
• Travel up to 15 %.

Teknor Apex is an equal‑opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on protected status under state or federal laws. Candidates must be 18 years of age or older. Salary will be determined based on qualifications and experience.