Controls Engineer

Together We Innovate. Together We Change. Ready to power the future of manufacturing through automation and innovation? If so, then we have an opportunity for you! As a Controls Engineer , you will lead the design, implementation, and optimization of automation and control systems that drive safe, reliable, and efficient manufacturing operations. Partnering with cross-functional teams and Integrated Work Systems (IWS) stakeholders, you will support high-speed production environments by improving system performance, enhancing equipment reliability, and delivering continuous improvement solutions. This position is fully onsite in Hopkinsville, KY, with approximately 30–40% regional travel to Clarksville, TN, and Nashville, TN . What you will be doing:

• Design, program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC, HMI, SCADA, and industrial control systems.
• Support automation integration across processing, packaging, and conveying systems.
• Configure and support VFDs, servo systems, instrumentation, and process controls.
• Integrate OEM equipment into plant-wide automation systems.
• Drive standardization of controls platforms, programming structures, and documentation.
• Provide technical support during equipment downtime and production issues.
• Diagnose and resolve electrical, controls, communication, and automation failures.
• Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for recurring issues.
• Lead controls-related aspects of capital projects from concept through commissioning.
• Coordinate with OEMs, system integrators, contractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Support FAT/SAT execution and system validation.
• Ensure proper documentation, backups, and change management processes.
• Assist with project planning, budgeting, and timelines.
• Identify opportunities for automation and process improvements.
• Support Integrated Work Systems (IWS) and operational excellence initiatives.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA, electrical, and industrial automation standards.
• Promote safe work practices, including proper lockout/tagout procedures.

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 5+ years of controls engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong hands-on experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting.
• Experience with industrial automation platforms (e.g., Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Wonderware, FactoryTalk).
• Knowledge of HMIs, SCADA systems, and industrial networking.
• Experience with VFDs, servo systems, instrumentation, and electrical systems.
• Ability to read and develop electrical schematics and panel designs.
• Experience supporting high-speed automated manufacturing equipment.
• Strong troubleshooting, communication, and project coordination skills.
• Experience in food, beverage or consumer packaged goods manufacturing.
• Experience with automated processing and packaging systems.
• Knowledge of batch systems and process automation.
• Experience with MES, OEE, and manufacturing data systems.
• Knowledge of OSHA and machine safety standards.