What are the responsibilities and job description for the Principal Control Engineer position at DSJ Global?
Position Overview
The Principal Controls & Instrumentation Engineer plays a critical role in enhancing the Automation Systems Group’s contribution to overall business performance. This position serves as a technical leader, collaborating across disciplines to develop and implement advanced technologies and processes for both existing and new product manufacturing. The role is responsible for designing, building, and deploying cost-effective manufacturing controls hardware and software to support a dynamic and technically demanding environment.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will lead the design, development, specification, and implementation of automation controls and instrumentation for assembly and packaging processes. Additional responsibilities may include continuous improvement initiatives, obsolescence management, technology transfers, and support for new product development.
Core Duties Include:
- Automation System Design & Implementation
- Lead the design, debugging, specification, selection, and validation of control systems for fully automated discrete component assembly. Ensure successful installation, startup, commissioning, and manufacturing acceptance of automation equipment.
- Demonstrate mastery in automation controls engineering, including:
- Machine control design for custom automation systems
- Development and troubleshooting of software and hardware controls (e.g., electrical schematics, panel layouts, PLCs, HMIs, motion control, robotics, sensors, pneumatics, vision systems)
- PLC/SCADA application software development and implementation
- Translate complex user requirements into conceptualized automated control solutions. Design hardware and software systems that integrate regulatory, operational, and cost considerations. Experience in regulated industries (e.g., medical devices) is a strong plus.
- Mentor and develop team members to ensure successful project execution. Contribute to process improvements, training materials, SOPs, and feedback loops for future designs.
Preferred Qualifications
- Strong knowledge of VFD and Servo drives (Allen Bradley & SEW preferred)
- Experience with machine vision systems (Keyence and Cognex preferred)
- Deep understanding of PID loops and process control concepts
- Proven ability to work in industrial manufacturing environments with hands-on technical aptitude
- Familiarity with Allen Bradley PLCs, robotics programming, and complex motion control systems
