Senior Controls Specialist

American Battery Solutions has a full-time opening for a Senior Controls Specialist in Springboro, Ohio.

Job Summary

The Senior Controls Specialist manages all control aspects of new and existing machinery and equipment to meet business plan requirements. The Senior Controls Specialist collaborates across Engineering and Operations to ensure seamless plant automation. This role will require expertise in Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programming, troubleshooting, and system integration, with a focus on enhancing equipment efficiency and reliability.

Responsibilities

• Support new product introductions (phase-ins/phase-outs) and engineering/revision changes as it impacts control systems on equipment within the plant.
• Track and maintain all PLC codes.
• Lead efforts to upgrade and improve PLC controls and operations.
• Troubleshoot controls issues on machinery and equipment.
• Lead bar code system implementation and maintenance throughout the plant.
• Lead Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and Structured Query Language (SQL) Server Database implementation and maintenance of existing and new systems.
• Support process and machinery capability studies and equipment installations.
• Support validation of all new and modified processes.
• Participate in Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA) and work instruction reviews.
• Ensure that equipment meets all applicable industry electrical standards.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement projects (e.g., cost reduction, efficiency improvement).
• Lead controls specification development and review of electrical drawings for new machinery and equipment and modifications to existing machinery and equipment.
• Support weekend work and off-shift work when required.
• Support the production operator.
• Maintain a safe and clean working environment.
• Adhere to federal and state regulations.
• Adhere to all company policies, processes, and procedures.
• Performs other duties as requested, directed, or assigned.
• Predictable and reliable attendance.

Position Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of seven (7) years of control engineering experience in a manufacturing facility.
• Strong working knowledge of PLC, Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) relays, contactors, servos, steppers, low voltage circuits, high voltage circuits, torque drivers, bar code systems, database storage, and vision systems.
• Ability to effectively program the following types of software: Allen Bradley, Ignition, Keyence sensors/cameras, SQL(plus), Fanuc robots, and AutoCAD Electric.
• Experience working with quality management systems.
• Experience working with bar code systems.
• Thorough understanding of machine code and its practical application in system-level operations.
• Working knowledge of machine electrical cabinet layout and machine controls.
• Experience with TS 16949 and ISO 14001.
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office
• Travel to equipment integrator sites and vendors when required.

Key Competencies

• Focuses on Quality: Drives work results with a quality focus on actions and results.
• Decision Making & Analysis: Makes sound decisions based upon a mixture of data-driven analysis, expertise, experience, and judgment; collects relevant information, seeks input from others, and identifies connections and/or root causes of problems.
• Continual Improvement: Displays a consistent orientation toward producing the highest quality products or services, while keeping a focus on sustainability. Constantly looking for incremental improvements in work processes and results.
• Takes Initiative: Exhibits strong drive for results and success; conveys a sense of urgency and drives issues to closure; persists despite obstacles and opposition.
• Delivers Results: Achievement-oriented, feeling a sense of urgency to reach goals on time, if not before.
• Teamwork: Works cooperatively with others to accomplish team goals and organizational objectives.
• Communications: Exchanges thoughts, feelings, and information effectively.

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer in both an office and industrial environment.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office equipment.
• Ability to adjust focus, especially due to concentration on a computer screen.
• May need to lift and carry up to 30 pounds and/or position the body to reach items on the floor/below knee level or reach overhead.
• The person in this position needs to frequently move about in industrial environments.
• Works in a temperature-controlled office environment and in industrial environments where safety shoes and safety glasses are mandatory.
• The noise level in the work environment can be moderately loud.
• Works in an environment with high voltage electricity present on the manufacturing lines which may require the use of personal protective equipment to protect the safety of the person.
• May be required to recognize small numbers, letters, symbols, colors on prints, and/or operate field instruments/equipment.
• May be required to travel to and navigate a variety of sites to fully understand material needs.
• Must be able to manipulate equipment for calibration and modification.
• Must be able to bend, lift, stretch, stoop, push, pull, stand, and carry as needed to inspect, service, and operate machinery, equipment, and gauges.
• Visual acuity to read instructions, operate machines, and inspect parts produced.
• The noise level in the work environment can be moderately loud.
• The ability to respond quickly to sounds.
• The ability to see and respond to dangerous situations.
• The ability to wear personal protective gear correctly most of the day.

Why Join Us

American Battery Solutions (ABS) provides comprehensive 100% employer paid benefit plans to employees and their family, competitive salary and retirement program. ABS employs a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Benefits Overview

• Paid time off includes 4 weeks, 15 holidays, and parental leave.
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) offerings.
• Company provided 401K savings plan with immediately vested matching contributions to help you save for retirement.
• Voluntary benefits offerings.
• Tuition assistance.
• Employee Referral Program.
• Employee development and career growth opportunities.

About Us

American Battery Solutions Inc. (“ABS”) is a manufacturer of advanced batteries for commercial, fleet, and industrial on- and off-road vehicles. Located in the heart of the U.S. automotive region with facilities in Michigan and Ohio. In 2023, ABS was acquired by Komatsu, a world leader in construction, mining, forestry, and industrial heavy equipment in support of Komatsu’s 2050 carbon neutrality goal. ABS continues to operate as an independent entity serving Komatsu applications while continuing to expand and grow our core commercial, fleet and industrial business.

As we have grown, ABS has assembled a world-class team of dedicated and experienced engineers. This team is equipped with a deep understanding of high-voltage, automotive-grade battery systems from concept development and prototyping, to testing and validation, to high-volume production. We pride ourselves on developing a diverse team of next generation battery experts.

The Location – Springboro, OH

American Battery Solutions Advanced Battery Manufacturing Center is located in beautiful and historic Springboro Ohio. Life in Springboro is all about the quality and character of our community and that is why Springboro continues to be a top-ten-rated City to live, work, play, and raise a family. In fact, Springboro was rated #3 among the top 10 communities in greater Southwest Ohio. In essence, Springboro appeals to everyone from young families to people looking for the perfect place to retire. Our great neighborhoods, excellent schools, safety, services, and amenities all contribute to Springboro’s exceptional quality of life. Springboro offers a variety of public programming that includes outdoor concerts, festivals, and fireworks. Our residents enjoy bike and walking trails, an 18-hole public golf course, a charming and vibrant historic district, and 501 acres of parks.

AMERICAN BATTERY SOLUTIONS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.