Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer – Conveyor Systems

This role focuses on delivering complete controls solutions for conveyor systems from initial build through installation, startup, and production support. The Controls Engineer will program, troubleshoot, and debug PLC-based systems, primarily using Rockwell platforms, while working closely with automotive OEM customers. The position offers significant hands-on exposure on the plant floor, extensive project lifecycle ownership, and strong opportunities for professional growth into a well-rounded Controls Engineer and future project leader.

• Handle the full lifecycle of conveyor system controls projects, from in-house build through installation, startup, and launch at customer sites.
• Program PLCs and related control systems using established templates within the Rockwell platform, ensuring consistency with project standards.
• Troubleshoot and debug PLC programs, HMI interfaces, and related control systems during build, installation, and startup phases.
• Work actively on the plant floor to support various projects at different phases, including conveyor systems, powertrain assembly, and tooling.
• Ensure that all programming work adheres to project templates, customer specifications, and internal standards.
• Support the build phase at the internal facility, collaborating with other Controls Engineers and project team members to prepare systems for installation.
• Travel to customer sites, including automotive OEM plants, to support installation, commissioning, and startup of conveyor and related equipment.
• Identify and resolve controls-related issues during installation and startup, including ladder logic debugging and system tuning.
• Monitor project timelines and proactively work to meet customer deadlines and milestones.
• Collaborate closely with project managers and other team members to coordinate work, communicate status, and address risks or issues.
• Provide on-site support during startup, including extended hours and off-shift work as required by customer schedules.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of controls templates, standards, and processes based on lessons learned from projects.
• Support multiple projects as needed, stepping into different roles within the controls and project teams to fill gaps and ensure project success.
• Maintain clear documentation of programming changes, troubleshooting steps, and system configurations throughout the project.
• Build strong working relationships with customer plant personnel and internal team members across various locations.

• At least 2 years of experience in Controls Engineering, with a strong understanding of programming, troubleshooting, and debugging conveyor systems.
• Minimum 2 years of hands-on Rockwell PLC experience, including platforms such as PLC-5 and RSLogix.
• At least 2 years of experience troubleshooting, debugging, and programming from templates within a Rockwell-based controls environment.
• Minimum 2 years of experience installing equipment at an OEM, preferably conveyor systems, within automotive plants.
• Experience working inside automotive OEM plants (such as Ford, GM, or Stellantis) performing installation of equipment; conveyor installation experience is strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in PLC programming and ladder logic for industrial automation applications.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and debug control systems during build, installation, and startup phases.
• Experience working with HMI systems within the Rockwell ecosystem.
• Ability to follow and program from standardized templates within the Rockwell platform.
• Willingness and ability to travel to customer sites for installation and startup support, including multi-week stays.
• Comfort working extended hours (60–70 hours per week) and off-shift schedules during installation and startup as required by customers.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with project managers, other Controls Engineers, and customer personnel.
• Capability to work independently on the plant floor and adapt to changing project phases and priorities.

• GM certifications related to controls or…