What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Controls Engineer position at Kubota?
Senior Controls Engineer – Gainesville, GA
Build the Future of Manufacturing with Kubota
At Kubota, we’re transforming manufacturing through advanced automation, smart systems, and continuous innovation. As a Senior Controls Engineer, you’ll lead the development and implementation of advanced automated systems to support and enhance manufacturing and maintenance operations. Provide expert-level technical leadership in the design, integration, and optimization of mechatronic and control systems across multiple production lines. Drive innovation in manufacturing controls solutions with a focus on operator safety, system reliability, and scalability.
This is a hands‑on, high‑impact role where you won’t just design systems—you’ll bring them to life on the factory floor. Working alongside cross‑functional teams, you’ll solve complex challenges, integrate emerging technologies, and directly influence how our products are built.
What You’ll Do
Automation & Controls Engineering
- Architect, develop, and optimize PLC programs (primarily Allen Bradley and Mitsubishi) for complex production systems.
- Drive innovation in manufacturing controls solutions with a focus on operator safety, system reliability, and scalability.
- Develop and enforce company-wide controls standards and best practices.
- Collaborate with IT and MES teams to ensure seamless integration of automation systems with enterprise platforms.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant codes and standards including NEC, NFPA, IEC, and other applicable regulations.
- Oversee the creation and maintenance of technical documentation including schematics, risk assessments, and operational procedures.
Project & Program Management
- Manage large-scale automation projects including scope definition, budgeting, scheduling, procurement, and installation.
- Evaluate and onboard new technologies and vendors to advance automation capabilities.
- Establish and maintain strategic relationships with automation and controls equipment suppliers.
- Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership regarding system performance and improvement opportunities.
Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement
- Lead root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives for recurring automation and controls issues.
- Lead the development and implementation of preventative maintenance programs for controls and automation equipment.
- Support operations during off-hours as needed for critical system issues or project deadlines.
Leadership & Capability Development
- Mentor and guide Controls Engineers and maintenance technicians in troubleshooting and resolving advanced controls-related issues.
- Provide training and technical guidance to manufacturing and maintenance teams on new systems and processes.
- Foster a collaborative team environment and support other engineering functions as needed.
- Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies through professional development and networking.
What You Bring
Core Competencies
- Problem Solving
- Communication
- Quality of Work
- Project Management
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Strategic Thinking
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills & Abilities):
- Minimum 10 years of experience in controls engineering, automation, or related discipline.
- Proven track record of leading complex automation projects and mentoring junior engineers.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous experience with Allen Bradley products.
- Advanced diagnostic and analytical skills.
- Strong leadership and project management capabilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and engineering software tools.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Self-driven with a proactive approach to problem-solving and innovation.
Education Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in automation engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, mechatronics, or related field.
In lieu of a degree, we consider equivalent, job-related experience, military service, professional certifications, and demonstrated skills. Equivalency determinations are made based on the essential functions of the role.
Language Requirements:
Must be able to read, write, understand, and communicate effectively in English.
Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environmental characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Kubota Offers
- Comprehensive medical/dental/vision
- 401k match
- Annual performance bonuses
- Earned time off (ETO)/10 paid company holidays
- Tuition reimbursement
- Stability and growth opportunity