Controls Engineer

Position Summary

The Controls Engineer provides hands-on engineering support to manufacturing operations, ensuring production equipment operates efficiently, safely, and in accordance with design specifications. This role partners closely with maintenance, engineering, and operations teams to troubleshoot issues, optimize performance, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide controls engineering support to all plant departments

• Troubleshoot production issues and support maintenance with electrical, electronic, and controls-related challenges

• Ensure manufacturing equipment operates effectively and efficiently

• Support and optimize preventive maintenance programs

• Analyze equipment performance data to ensure operation aligns with design parameters

• Serve as a technical resource to maintenance personnel on equipment and process issues

• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives (Kaizen, OEE, standard work, etc.)

• Support and manage facility engineering projects

• Provide technical support during equipment installation, commissioning, and new construction

• Develop and maintain accurate process documentation and manufacturing instructions

• Prepare technical and non-technical reports and presentations

• Collaborate cross-functionally with product, process, safety, and environmental teams

• Identify and implement improvements that reduce cost, improve quality, and enhance delivery

• Review electrical engineering criteria for new and proposed projects

• Coordinate electrical engineering projects in compliance with applicable codes and regulations

• Install, support, and maintain PLC and PC-based control systems (HMI, VFDs, automation software, etc.)

Required Skills & Technical Expertise

• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills for manufacturing and controls systems

• Highly developed electrical and controls engineering aptitude

• Experience with PLC and HMI platforms (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.)

• Knowledge of VFDs, industrial networks, and automation systems

• Proficiency with CAD software

• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills

• Solid understanding of electrical codes, standards, and regulations

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

• Several years of controls or automation engineering experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment

• Experience with lean manufacturing, OEE, JIT, line sequencing, and continuous improvement initiatives

• Demonstrated success leading cost-focused engineering solutions

Physical & Work Environment

• Office and manufacturing floor environments

• Frequent standing, walking, and interaction on the production floor

• Occasional lifting up to 20 pounds

• Manufacturing environment may include noise, heat, particulates, and industrial materials

• PPE required in designated areas

Work Schedule & Travel

• Ability to work extended hours as required to support production

• Occasional domestic or international travel may be required