Controls Engineer

SUMMARY

The Controls Engineer for Die Casting is responsible for designing, programming, and maintaining the control systems that manage die casting operations. This includes overseeing automation systems, troubleshooting issues, and optimizing the performance of machines used in the die casting process, including die casting machines, furnaces, robotic arms, conveyors, and cooling systems.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and implement control systems for die casting machines and associated automation equipment, ensuring smooth operation and integration with other systems.
• Program, configure, and troubleshoot PLCs (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens) that control key functions in the die casting process, such as metal injection, mold ejection, cooling, and part handling
• Develop and maintain Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for operators, providing a user-friendly interface to monitor and control the die casting process.
• Integrate the die casting control systems with other plant equipment and systems such as material handling, robot arms, and production line machinery.
• Continuously analyze the performance of die casting systems and recommend improvements to optimize cycle time, reduce waste, enhance quality, and increase productivity.
• Continuously analyze the performance of die casting systems and recommend improvements to optimize cycle time, reduce waste, enhance quality, and increase productivity.
• Provide on-site troubleshooting and technical support for issues related to control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and actuators.
• Ensure that control systems comply with safety standards (e.g., ISO, OSHA, NFPA) and implement safety protocols to protect personnel and equipment.
• Collect and analyze process data to identify trends, root causes of problems, and opportunities for improvement. Provide detailed reports and recommendations to management.
• Work closely with mechanical, electrical, and process engineers to optimize die casting operations and ensure seamless integration of control systems with machinery.
• Train operators and maintenance staff on the operation and troubleshooting of control systems. Provide ongoing technical support for new system upgrades or changes.
• Maintain detailed records of control system designs, configurations, and changes. Create standard operating procedures (SOPs) for system operations and troubleshooting.

QUALIFICATIONS:

              MINIMUM REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering with prior controls and electrical work background or 10 years of equivalent experience.  
• Trades School (Electrical), Associates degree in electrical technology, journeyman cert or apprenticeship completion (electrician)
• 3 years of experience in the following:
  • Siemens PLC, TIA Portal
  • Siemens HMI
  • Fanuc robots
  • Welding, Riveting, Flow drill screws, Lasers, and other joining process controllers
  • Communications protocols: Ethernet/IP, ProfiNet
  • PC setup - software and hardware configuration

• Proven experience in control systems engineering, preferably in manufacturing or die casting industries. 

• Familiarity with die casting processes and machinery is a significant advantage.
• Automotive experience

PREFERRED:

• Master’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering with prior controls and electrical work background
• Experience interacting with and maintaining industrial control systems
• Software: CAD, JSON, MQTT, Data Analysis 
• Experience with Python, Visual Basic, Visual C , or other programming languages

WORK CONDITIONS:

• Exposure to loud noises
• Stand, walk, sit, use hands, reach & grasp, climb, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb, talk & vision, lift up to 30lbs
• Flexibility to work different shifts (Days, Nights, Weekends)