Controls Engineer - Automation / PLC

Position Summary We are currently in search of a highly skilled Senior Controls Engineer with extensive expertise in industrial automation to become a valuable member of our team. The primary responsibility of this role will involve serving as the technical lead for controls engineering activities on automation projects, overseeing all controls-related matters from the initial design phase through to commissioning. The ideal candidate will be actively engaged in a workshop setting, focusing on programming, configuring, and troubleshooting automated machinery. Additionally, they will be involved in supporting customer buyoffs and will be required to travel to customer facilities for installation and startup tasks. As the primary technical point of contact for controls issues on designated projects, the successful candidate will be responsible for driving resolutions while ensuring that management is kept informed of project status, risks, and technical challenges. Key Responsibilities Serve as the technical lead for all controls engineering activities on designated projects Identify, escalate, and resolve controls-related technical issues promptly Clearly communicate project status, technical risks, and open issues to management and project stakeholders Design, develop, and program PLC-based control systems utilizing: Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000 / RSLogix) Siemens (TIA Portal / Step 7) Develop and maintain HMI applications for operator interfaces and system visualization. Program, configure, and commission Fanuc industrial robots, including Robot setup Path programming Integration with surrounding automation systems Work in-shop during machine build and pre-shipment phases to: Program systems Configure hardware Troubleshoot controls issues Support customer buyoffs, and resolve punch-list items before shipment. Travel to customer facilities for: Installation Startup Commissioning Technical support Perform system integration testing and troubleshoot hardware/software issues during commissioning and post-installation Collaborate with project engineers, mechanical teams, electricians, and customers to define and implement controls requirements Develop and maintain controls documentation, including: Functional specifications I/O lists Electrical schematics Operator manuals Provide remote and on-site technical support after system commissioning Mentor junior engineers and contribute to internal programming standards and best practices. Qualifications The successful candidate should possess a Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Systems Engineering, or equivalent experience 3+ years of hands-on experience in industrial controls engineering Proficiency with both Allen-Bradley PLC platforms (Studio 5000 / RSLogix) and Siemens PLC platforms Experience in programming and commissioning Fanuc robots ROBOGUIDE experience being preferred Strong HMI development experience using FactoryTalk View, WinCC, or equivalent platforms Experience with vision systems, servo and motion control systems, and safety system design is required Familiarity with industrial networking protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Profinet, and DeviceNet The ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams is crucial. The ideal candidate should have a proven ability to lead technical efforts and communicate effectively with management, customers, and project teams Willingness and ability to travel to customer plant sites as required is a must. Preferred Qualifications Preferred qualifications include familiarity with SCADA systems and MES integration Prior experience in automotive manufacturing, food & beverage, or heavy industrial manufacturing Experience with machine automation, robotic cells, and custom equipment integration is also advantageous. Work Environment The work environment will involve hands-on activities in a shop setting, including machine builds and testing. Travel will be necessary for installation, commissioning, and customer support, with a combination of office, manufacturing floor, and customer site work. Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary based on experience Comprehensive benefits package Opportunities for career advancement and technical leadership Collaborative engineering-focused work environment Employment Type: Full Time Years Experience: 3 - 5 years Salary: $35 - $48 Hourly Bonus/Commission: No