Controls Engineer

Description

Summary

The Controls Engineer reports to the Corrective Maintenance Group Leader and is responsible for troubleshooting and maintaining control systems, PLCs, and robotics as well as taking on and overseeing special electronics projects. 

Major Areas of Responsibility

• Troubleshooting, repairing plant equipment, and PLC Programming
• Taking on special projects pertaining to plant electronics 

Specific Responsibilities of the Job

• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair plant equipment involving checking voltages, changing out bad components, switching out gauges, as well as making camera and software adjustments 
• Develop and design control systems for plant and automation equipment, ensuring they meet safety, quality, and efficiency standards
• Write, test, and debug PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programs to control manufacturing processes, including ladder logic and structured text
• Create and maintain Human-Machine Interface (HMI) systems to enable operators to monitor and control equipment effectively
• Integrate robotic systems into the manufacturing process, programming them for material handling.
• Research and recommend machine control upgrades to address outdated controls
• Maintain accurate documentation, including schematics, manuals, and change logs, to support maintenance and future upgrades
• Ensure all control systems and automation equipment adhere to safety standards and regulations, taking a proactive approach to mitigate safety risks
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, maintenance, and quality assurance, to achieve manufacturing goals
• Provide training and support to operators and maintenance technicians on control systems and automation equipment operation
• Other projects and responsibilities as specified 

Standards of Performance

• Minimizes downtime and improves machine efficiency  
• Sees special projects through to completion 

Essential Functions

• Proficient in English Language
• Ability to work independently as well as with a team 
• PLC experience, CNC troubleshooting experience, and AC/ DC servo drive experience
• Walking in a manufacturing setting with multiple stairs and inclines 

Qualifications

• Education/Credentials/Certifications
• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or related field 
• Length of Experience
• Minimum 1-3 years of experience troubleshooting electronic controls in a manufacturing setting
• Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens), HMI development, and industrial robotics
• Knowledge of Siemens 1500 TIA Portal
• Strong understanding of control systems, automation principles, and electrical circuits.
• Knowledge of ABB robot electronic maintenance and programming
• Knowledge of automated transfer systems like gantries and conveyors
• Understanding of schematics and program reading
• Knowledgeable in a variety of machine software 
• Ability to work independently as well as with a team 
• PLC experience, CNC troubleshooting experience, and AC/ DC servo drive experience
• Knowledge of safety standards (e.g., ISO 13849, NFPA 79) and experience implementing safety measures in control systems.
• Familiarity with AutoCAD or other electrical design software
• Strong algebraic mathematical ability 
• Understanding of standard to metric conversions
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities
• Ability to multi-task in a fast paced environment 
• Willingness to stay up-to-date with industry trends and advancements in control engineering
• Excellent computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office 
• Project Management skills
• Physical Demands and Working Conditions
• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by any worker to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. In terms of movement, the job may require kneeling, crouching, reaching, handling, use of fingers, feeling, repetitive motions, eye/hand/foot coordination, standing, walking, frequent us of hearing and smelling to distinguish sounds and odors indicating malfunction, and occasional balancing. 
• In terms of vision, the job may require near acuity, far acuity, depth perception, accommodation, color vision, and peripheral vision. 
• Environmental conditions may include contact with water or other liquids, noise, atmospheric conditions, and occasional extreme heat.
• Hazards may include proximity to moving, mechanical parts, exposure to electrical components, working in high, exposed places, and occasional exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals. 
• May require Medium Physical Strength