Production Engineer; Controls focused

JTEKT North America is a global leader in engineering and manufacturing automotive systems
, bearing solutions
, and high-performance machine tools
. As a proud member of the Toyota Group
, we are committed to innovation, quality, and continuous improvement. Our Piedmont plant is currently undergoing a major expansion in 2025
, bringing in over 120 new machines and automation systems
, creating exciting opportunities for growth and advancement.

As a Control Engineer, you’ll be the go-to expert for designing, programming, and optimizing advanced automation systems. You’ll work with cutting-edge tech like Mitsubishi and Allen‑Bradley PLCs, Fanuc robotics, and Keyence vision systems, all while helping us scale up our high-volume, 24/7 production lines.

• Architect and program PLC/SCADA/HMI systems for high-volume, 24/7 production lines using Mitsubishi, Allen‑Bradley, and Fanuc PMC platforms.
• Integrate and support Fanuc robotics and Keyence vision/laser systems for automated inspection and traceability.
• Collaborate with Process Engineering, Quality, and Corporate PE teams to deploy turnkey automation cells and support new product launches.
• Lead root‑cause analyses to resolve technical issues and reduce unplanned downtime.
• Drive data‑driven improvements using OEE, SPC, and other analytics tools to enhance quality and efficiency.
• Design and develop tooling, fixtures, and gauging to support robust and repeatable manufacturing processes.
• Analyze and optimize processes to improve quality, reduce costs, and shorten cycle times.
• Update and manage engineering documentation and implement process changes in support of APQP and PPAP.
• Commission and validate new equipment to meet production and quality standards; evaluate and adjust spare parts strategies.
• Conduct equipment capability studies, develop PFMEAs, and manage capital equipment purchases.
• Generate detailed engineering reports and lead projects related to process changes and new product introductions.
• Support 5S and safety initiatives to maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work environment.
• Mentor and assist maintenance and production teams with troubleshooting and long‑term system reliability.
• Take ownership of additional responsibilities as assigned by management.
• Work overtime as needed to support production schedules, equipment launches, or urgent troubleshooting.
• Other duties as assigned by management.

• This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

• Proficient in PLC/HMI programming (Mitsubishi, Allen‑Bradley) and SCADA systems for high-volume automation. Experience in Fanuc robotics, Keyence vision systems, and laser marking integration is preferred.
• Strong problem‑solving skills for automated equipment troubleshooting and root cause analysis; ability to read and develop electrical schematics and troubleshoot complex control systems.
• Experienced in controls software development, implementation, and debugging.
• Effective in cross‑functional collaboration and managing capital projects and use of data analytics tools (OEE, SPC) to drive performance improvements.
• Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, TPS, IATF 16949 and engineering documentation standards for process optimization and continuous improvement.
• Commitment to safety and 5S (maintaining a clean and efficient work environment).

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Electrical, Mechatronics, Automation or related field) and/or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• 3+ years of experience in automotive (preferred) or high-volume manufacturing.
• 3+ years of experience in electrical and controls design for automated equipment; controls software development, implementation and troubleshooting.

• Work shift as assigned and overtime is required, as needed.
• Will be required to do the following throughout the shift: standing, bending, pushing, pulling, reaching above and below shoulders, moving left to right repetitively, grasping, and fine finger dexterity.
• May be required to lift during shift up to 40 lbs.
• Specific vision abilities required with this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• The performance of this position requires exposure to manufacturing areas which require the use of personal protective equipment such as steel‑toed shoes, safety glasses with side shields.
• Forklift, walkee stacker, and/or scissor lift experience.