Automation and Controls Engineer

Automation and Controls Engineer – Foster Corporation

Base pay range: $ - $ per hour.

We are seeking a highly skilled Controls Engineer to join our extrusion plant operations team.

• Design, program, and maintain PLC-based control systems for extrusion equipment.
• Develop and implement closed-loop control strategies for temperature, pressure, and speed regulation.
• Configure and troubleshoot drive systems (AC/DC drives, servo systems) for extrusion lines.
• Integrate and optimize HMI interfaces for operator usability and process monitoring.
• Perform system diagnostics and root cause analysis to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams to support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with electrical safety standards and plant operational procedures.
• Document control logic, wiring diagrams, and system configurations for future reference.

• Proficiency in PLC programming and troubleshooting:
  Allen-Bradley (Control Logix, Compact Logix), Siemens (S7 series, TIA Portal).
• Experience with drive programming (ABB, Siemens, Rockwell Power Flex).
• Strong understanding of closed-loop control systems and PID tuning.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (Ether Net/IP, Profibus, Modbus).
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and P&IDs.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

• Experience in extrusion processes or similar continuous manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of SCADA systems and data acquisition.
• Familiarity with robotics integration and advanced motion control.
• Strong project management and documentation skills.
• Ensuring all department workers adhere to the safety policies and procedures.
• Operational efficiency of electrical and mechanical systems through timely inspection and repair.

• Excellent electrical, electronic, and mechanical skills.
• Experience with AutoCAD or similar program.
• Knowledge of NEC, NFPA
  79, OSHA Regulations.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 7+ years of experience in industrial automation and controls engineering.
• Prior experience with cGMP, ISO 13485 or ISO 9001 is preferred.
• 5-10 years work experience in a regulated industry preferred.

• Mathematical skills: ability to calculate with units of measure.
• Language/Communication: read, write, follow written instructions.
• Computer: SOLIDWORKS or AutoCAD preferred; familiarity with MS Office.

• Ability to stand, walk, use hands, reach, climb, balance, stoop, kneel.
• Frequently lift/move up to 50 lbs unassisted; occasional lifting up to 100 lbs.

• Regular exposure to fumes or airborne particles.
• Occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts and vibration.
• Normal exposure to moderate noise levels.

Up to 15% travel to support all U.S. locations (Connecticut and Nevada).

None.

Low.

• Mid-Senior level

• Full-time

• Engineering and Information Technology

• Plastics Manufacturing

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