Controls Engineer

Position Summary

The Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, commissioning, and sustaining industrial automation systems, with a strong emphasis on SCADA and MES platforms, including Ignition and Kanoa MES. This role supports the organization’s transition to data‑driven, digitally connected manufacturing, enabling real‑time visibility into operations through dashboards, system integration, and data infrastructure. The position bridges traditional controls engineering with industrial data systems, supporting both equipment performance and operational insights.

The engineer will collaborate closely with operations, maintenance, engineering, and IT/OT teams to ensure systems are reliable, scalable, and deliver meaningful data across both facilities.

• Develop, modify, and maintain PLC programs (Allen‑Bradley primarily) with a focus on reliable operation and structured data integration.
• Design, develop, and support HMI, SCADA, and MES interfaces for equipment control and operational visibility.
• Develop and maintain Ignition SCADA and Kanoa MES applications, including screens, workflows, and integrations.
• Build and sustain real‑time dashboards, KPIs, and visualization tools for operations, maintenance, and leadership.
• Develop and manage tag structures, naming conventions, and system architecture to ensure scalability and maintainability.
• Integrate PLCs and field devices into SCADA/MES systems.
• Configure and maintain data historians, alarm systems, and event/downtime tracking systems.
• Support MES functionality including production tracking, OEE, quality data capture, and traceability.
• Develop and maintain SQL queries, scripts, and database connections for reporting and system performance.
• Perform system startup, commissioning, testing, debugging, and field modifications with emphasis on data validation and visualization accuracy.
• Troubleshoot issues related to controls systems, SCADA/MES platforms, data integrity, system performance, and user interfaces.
• Troubleshoot robotics (ABB, FANUC, KUKA), servo systems, VFDs, and industrial communication networks.
• Coordinate multiple projects while ensuring alignment with data architecture and system standards.
• Collaborate with IT/OT teams on network infrastructure, system architecture, and cybersecurity considerations.
• Ensure that all supplier‑ and IT-driven firmware and software updates are implemented timely according to IT/OT policies and procedures.
• Support installation, commissioning, and validation of control systems and digital platforms.
• Maintain accurate documentation for control logic, SCADA/MES configurations, tag structures, and system architecture.
• Develop and enforce standards for tag naming, dashboard design, and system scalability.
• Train and support users on SCADA, MES tools, and dashboards to drive adoption and effectiveness.
• Lead or support continuous improvement initiatives using data‑driven insights and system capabilities.
• Ensure uptime, reliability, and long‑term sustainment of automation and SCADA/MES systems.

• 2‑year technical degree in Engineering, Electronics, Automation Integration, Robotics, or related technical field and 2–4 years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Programming experience with Allen‑Bradley PLCs.
• HMI or SCADA development experience (Ignition, or similar platforms).
• Understanding of industrial networking (Ethernet/IP, device‑level networks).
• Experience integrating field devices and control systems with data collection platforms.
• Working knowledge of servo drives, VFDs, and motion control systems.
• Experience integrating or troubleshooting sensors, instrumentation, or vision systems.
• Strong troubleshooting, problem‑solving, and root‑cause analysis abilities.
• Basic project planning and organization skills.
• Working knowledge of industrial instruments, tools, and process control equipment.
• Strategic application of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies to drive business outcomes, enhance decision‑making, and improve operational efficiency.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and ability to learn new automation and software platforms.
• Experience…