Automation Controls Engineer

Controls EngineerSilgan Plastics is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join our Manufacturing Engineering and Automation team. This role is responsible for the specification, design, programming, installation, training and start-up of industrial control systems supporting blow molding and auxiliary equipment. A key focus of this position is the implementation of automation solutions that reduce end of line labor, improve line efficiency and productivity, enhance safety and reduce operational risk, and support cost reduction initiative across manufacturing operations. The Controls Engineer will work cross-functionally with engineering, operations, maintenance, and safety teams to deliver scalable and reliable automation solutions.Key Responsibilities:Controls & Automation EngineeringDesign, program, and commission industrial control systems for manufacturing equipment.Develop PLC and HMI programs primarily using Allen?Bradley/Rockwell Automation platforms.Support system start?ups, debugging, and validation at manufacturing sites.Provide operator and maintenance training on new and modified systems.Electrical & Panel DesignDesign control panels, including:Electrical schematicsBills of materialsWiring diagramsRead, create, and maintain single?line diagrams and P&ID drawings.Ensure designs meet applicable safety, quality, and regulatory standards.Productivity, Cost & Process ImprovementIdentify and implement productivity improvements and workflow optimizations.Support automation projects aimed at:Reducing pack laborImproving line efficiencyEnhancing product tracking from blow molder to palletPartner with operations to drive continuous improvement initiatives.Safety & Risk ReductionProvide engineering, PPE, or training solutions in response to near?misses or accident reports.Support safety?focused automation and guarding improvements in high?exposure areas.Ensure controls solutions align with Silgan safety standards.Equipment Support & DevelopmentSupport the design, improvement, and fabrication of internally developed or purchased blow molding and auxiliary equipment.Collaborate with vendors and internal teams during equipment installation and upgrades.Key CompetenciesStrong analytical and troubleshooting skillsAbility to manage multiple projects and prioritiesEffective communication with technical and non?technical stakeholdersContinuous improvement mindsetWillingness to travel and support multiple manufacturing locationsTravel Requirements:This position requires travel within the continental United States and Canada. The ideal candidate must have the ability to obtain a passport as there may be potential travel to our Canadian location.Education:Required: High School DiplomaPreferred: Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, or related field)Experience & Technical SkillsRequired (3–5 years):PLC programming using Allen?Bradley / Rockwell Automation software.Experience setting up and programming HMIs.Ability to read, create, and maintain:Electrical schematicsSingle?line diagramsP&IDsProficiency with:Microsoft OfficeMicrosoft Project2D CAD software (AutoCAD Electrical / Mechanical)Preferred (Not Required):Working knowledge of PLC/HMI platforms from Siemens, Mitsubishi, or Omron.Experience with industrial robots such as Yaskawa, Fanuc, Universal Robots, or KUKA.