About the job Automation / Controls Engineer (PLC Integration - Siemens / MES / Robots)
We are seeking a Controls Engineer with strong hands-on experience in Siemens PLC programming, specifically Structured Text (ST), along with the ability to interpret and troubleshoot Ladder Logic (LAD).
This role focuses on troubleshooting alarms, faults, and communication issues across a network of Ethernet-connected PLCs, robotic cells, and automated equipment to ensure reliable and continuous manufacturing operations. The engineer will be expected to diagnose issues at both the control logic and industrial network levels.
The system environment includes multiple PLCs and robotic stations integrated over industrial Ethernet (PROFINET / TCP/IP), with production data communicated to an MES platform through a gateway layer (e.g., OPC UA or similar middleware). The MES platform is responsible for real-time data collection, tracking, and production visibility.
The selected candidate will work with an existing Siemens Structured Text-based communication standard used to collect and organize manufacturing data such as sensor states, limit switches, temperatures, part numbers, and machine statuses. This data is packaged and transmitted to the MES system via the network gateway.
Overview
In this role, you will support high-volume manufacturing operations in a fast-paced production environment. The ideal candidate brings a strong PLC programming foundation, hands-on troubleshooting experience, and the ability to work across multi-PLC, multi-vendor systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Troubleshoot and resolve PLC alarms, system faults, and communication issues across multiple machines, robotic cells, and approximately 40+ networked PLCs
- Analyze, debug, and modify Structured Text (ST) and Ladder Logic (LAD) within Siemens environments (TIA Portal preferred)
- Implement and retrofit a standardized ST-based data collection and communication framework across multiple PLCs
- Ensure consistent tag structure, naming conventions, and data mapping for MES integration
- Support and troubleshoot OPC/gateway communication layers between PLCs and MES
- Diagnose and resolve data integrity, latency, and network communication issues across PROFINET / TCP/IP networks
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (manufacturing, IT/OT, robotics) to support system integration and uptime improvements
- Optimize PLC code for performance, memory constraints, and communication efficiency
- Identify root causes of recurring faults and drive continuous improvement (MTTR reduction, fault frequency reduction)
Requirements
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience
- Experience: 5+ years of PLC programming and troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment
- Strong proficiency in Siemens PLCs (TIA Portal preferred)
- Strong experience with Structured Text (ST) and working knowledge of Ladder Logic (LAD)
- Experience with MES integration, OPC (UA/DA), or similar communication layers
- Familiarity with industrial Ethernet networks (PROFINET, TCP/IP, EtherNet/IP)
- Ability to troubleshoot across PLC logic, controls hardware, and network communication layers
- Experience working in high-speed or high-volume manufacturing environments
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with non-Siemens PLC platforms such as Omron, Mitsubishi, and Inovance (common in overseas/OEM equipment) is a plus
- Experience with robotic systems and automated production cells
- Knowledge of safety circuits, interlocks, and machine safety standards
- Familiarity with SCADA/HMI systems (e.g., FactoryTalk View, WinCC, Ignition)
- Experience working in multi-vendor, multi-platform control environments
Why Join This Opportunity?
- Work on complex, large-scale automated manufacturing systems
- Exposure to MES integration, multi-PLC architectures, and advanced automation environments
- Opportunity to make a direct impact on production uptime and system performance
- Collaborative, fast-paced engineering environment
Interview Process
- Virtual interview (Zoom or similar)
- Final on-site or technical discussion with engineering team
Additional Information
- Must be authorized to work in the U.S. (U.S. Citizen, Green Card, or valid Work Authorization)
- This is a contract position