Automation Controls Engineer

About the Role:
The Automation Controls Engineer will design, program, and optimize control systems and automated equipment for advanced manufacturing and material handling environments. This position requires a strong equipment design background, combining hands-on PLC programming with mechanical and electrical system design. The ideal candidate has experience developing custom machinery, integrating automation technologies, and improving production efficiency through innovative engineering solutions.

Responsibilities:

• Design, program, and commission PLC-based automation and control systems for custom machinery and production equipment.
• Lead equipment design projects, including concept development, mechanical layout, and control integration.
• Develop and maintain detailed electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and mechanical drawings.
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial control components including sensors, VFDs, actuators, and servo systems.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and process engineers to design and integrate automated equipment that enhances performance and reliability.
• Conduct equipment testing, validation, and debugging to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Provide technical support for installation, start-up, and maintenance of control systems and automated equipment.
• Identify and implement design improvements to optimize system efficiency, cost, and maintainability.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation including PLC code, equipment drawings, and engineering change records.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in automation, controls engineering, or industrial equipment design.
• Proven expertise in PLC programming using Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent platforms.
• Strong background in mechanical or electromechanical equipment design, system layout, and integration.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar CAD software for mechanical and control system design.
• Solid understanding of electrical design, instrumentation, and industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profinet).
• Ability to troubleshoot and optimize complex automated systems and control architectures.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with HMI and SCADA system development.
• Familiarity with robotics integration, motion control, pneumatics, and vision-based systems.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or industry certifications such as Siemens or Rockwell Automation credentials.
• Background in custom machinery design, packaging automation, or high-speed manufacturing environments.