What are the responsibilities and job description for the Automation Controls Engineer position at Trueline?
Trueline's client, a leader in custom industrial automation solutions, is seeking an Automation Controls Engineer to join their engineering team in southern Maine. This is a great opportunity for a hands-on problem solver who’s excited to be part of a collaborative, growing team that delivers innovative automation systems across industries such as medical devices, defense, packaging, and food production.
What You’ll Do as the Automation Controls Engineer:Design and implement control systems for customized automation equipment.
Develop and debug programs using Ladder Logic, Python, C , Structured Text, or LabVIEW across platforms like PLCs, robotics, camera systems, and PCs.
Build intuitive graphical interfaces to support machine operation.
Partner with cross-functional teams—mechanical designers, technicians, purchasing, and clients—to ensure timely and high-quality project delivery.
Troubleshoot hardware and software issues with a focus on performance and efficiency.
Work with robotic systems, motion control, and machine vision to deliver tailored automation solutions.
Provide occasional on-site support during installations and system launches.
Develop detailed electrical schematics and user documentation.
Take ownership of control systems and manage project scope from initial design to deployment.
5 years of experience in industrial automation; senior-level controls experience strongly preferred.
Proficiency in industrial programming languages such as Structured Text, Python, C , or Ladder Logic.
Hands-on experience designing control logic for PLC-based systems.
Ability to diagnose and resolve both software and electrical system issues.
Solid understanding of GUIs for manufacturing environments.
Working knowledge of Allen-Bradley’s Studio 5000 software suite.
Skilled in developing electrical schematics for industrial equipment.
Mechanical aptitude and a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset.
Experience with robotics and vision systems in industrial settings.
Familiarity with network setup and configuration.
Exposure to CAD tools such as AutoCAD, Inventor, or SolidWorks.
Comfort learning and integrating new software platforms into workflow.
A competitive salary, along with a robust benefits package including:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Flexible spending accounts
Life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance
401(k) plan with employer contribution
Generous paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick time
Trueline and its clients are unabashed equal-opportunity employers committed to a diverse workforce. We want smart and ambitious applicants and recruit, refer, hire, place, and promote without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, age, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by federal or state law. The more diverse and inclusive we are, the better our work will be.
Research shows that while men apply to jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the criteria, women and other marginalized folks tend to apply only when they check every box. So, if you think you have what it takes but don’t necessarily meet every single point in the job description, we encourage you to apply.
