What are the responsibilities and job description for the SME - Controls Engineer position at Peter Cremer North America LP?
- IDENTIFICATION
Position Title: Controls Engineer
Supervisor: Senior Maintenance & Reliability Manager Date Completed: 07/03/2025
Department: South Terminal Maintenance/Engineering FLSA Classification: Exempt
Location(s): Site Wide Status: Full-time
- PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES (SUMMARY)
Reporting directly to the Senior Maintenance & Reliability Manager, the Controls Engineer serves as the controls system owner and is responsible for designing, programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining control systems site wide. This role plays a key part in supporting the overall manufacturing process by leading engineering changes, equipment upgrades, and cross-departmental initiatives. The Controls Engineer also assists with the implementation of new tools and processes and provides related training.
III. POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Education, Credentials, Licenses:
- Bachelor’s (B.S.) degree in Electronics Technology, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field (or a combination of education and experience).
- Operating knowledge of Microsoft office software and working proficiency with handheld computer (i.e. Smartphone, Tablet/iPad).
Kind & Length of Experience:
- Minimum of 3 years of experience as a manufacturing or system integrator having worked with the following systems:
- Wonderware System Platform
- Rockwell Suite of Software: Studio 5000 / RS Logix 5000, Factory Talk
- Minimum of 3 years of experience designing, programming, and troubleshooting PLCs, preferably Allen-Bradley systems.
- coLOS, Maple and other software experience preferred.
- PERFORMANCE MEASURES AND STANDARDS
- Design and optimize PLC logic to support process improvements, ensuring systems meet operational and safety requirements.
- Interpret electrical schematics and control diagrams to guide system design and integration.
- Apply advanced diagnostic tools and data analysis to resolve complex control system issues.
- Design, configure, and maintain HMI, SCADA, and controls systems (e.g., Wonderware System Platform, Maple, manuFACT™,) to support operational transparency and efficiency.
- Support and maintain industrial networking systems (EtherNet/IP).
- Lead the planning and execution of control system integration for equipment upgrades and new installations.
- Drive compliance with change management procedures (MOC), including full documentation of changes and impacts.
- Develop and maintain structured backups and version control systems for all automation programs.
- Analyze and troubleshoot high-impact control issues across multiple manufacturing systems.
- Interpret manufacturing sequences and equipment functions to support effective system troubleshooting and integration.
- Support system design through a deep understanding of process sequencing, interlocks, and safety dependencies.
- Produce technical reports and recommendations based on data collection and trend analysis.
- Define process and control specifications by aligning project requirements with operational goals.
- Lead root cause investigations for chronic issues, driving permanent corrective actions.
- Provide technical direction and oversight for site-wide control and automation projects.
- Configure, replace, and maintain field devices, such as sensors, actuators, and VFDs.
- Evaluate and implement control system improvements that enhance reliability and efficiency.
- Collaborate to define control requirements for capital projects and automation initiatives.
- Ensure system designs and implementations adhere to applicable safety codes and site standards.
- Support functional safety system testing and basic troubleshooting of safety circuits.
- Participate in audits, inspections, and risk assessments related to control systems.
- Mentor and train employees to develop and improve their control system understanding and ability to troubleshoot control-related issues.
- Provide leadership and support for downtime events that require advanced controls expertise.
- Adhere to all Site Environmental, Health, Safety, and Security requirements, local, state, and federal regulations
- Maintain hazardous waste in accordance with all local, state, and federal regulations.
- Other duties as required.
Peter Cremer Training Required:
- We will follow the company’s written training program for this position.
Customer Service, Teamwork & Code of Conduct:
- Maintain a safe, legal, and environmentally protective operation.
- Listen to our customers, suppliers, and employees.
- Respond quickly to customer concerns.
- Follow set guidelines for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), quality, and food safety requirements.
- Maintain training on applicable procedures in quality, GMP, and food safety.
- Report any food safety, security, and / or quality issues to management or the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) team to initiate action.
- Provide flexible and innovative strategies to support new business opportunities.
- Be cost effective in the utilization of our resources, thereby contributing to the profitability of Peter Cremer North America, LP and our customers.
- Strive for continuous improvement.
- Willing and eagerness to learn.
- Maintain positive “Can Do” attitude.
We are an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are considered for positions without regard to sex, race, color, ancestry, religion, national origin, disability, age, marital status, disabled veteran or Vietnam era veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, pregnancy, including childbirth or any related condition, gender identity or expression, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable state, federal or local laws.