Project Engineer - Controls & Electrical

About AmerichemAmerichem is a globally recognized designer and manufacturer of custom color masterbatch, functional additives, engineered compounds, and performance technologies. Our business is built around delivering Performance, Solutions, and Trust through close collaboration with customers seeking to optimize their polymer products. All of our products are backed by complete technical support that ensures quality, reliability, and value.Position SummaryAmerichem is seeking a hands-on and technically strong Project Engineer – Controls & Electrical to support the design, implementation, and commissioning of industrial automation and electrical systems across our manufacturing facilities. This role will focus heavily on PLC programming, electrical controls design, automation integration, and plant process improvements.The Project Engineer will partner closely with operations, maintenance, engineering, and external vendors to execute capital projects, troubleshoot manufacturing systems, improve equipment reliability, and support continuous improvement initiatives. This position plays a key role in supporting operational efficiency, equipment performance, and automation standardization across the organization. This is an exciting opportunity for an engineer who enjoys solving complex technical problems, working directly in manufacturing environments, and leading projects from concept through startup.Key Responsibilities Controls & Automation EngineeringDesign, program, and implement industrial control systems for manufacturing equipment and processesDevelop and maintain PLC, HMI, and SCADA programs utilizing platforms such as Allen Bradley, Siemens, or similar systemsTroubleshoot and resolve controls-related issues impacting plant operations and equipment performanceLead automation improvement initiatives focused on increasing reliability, reducing downtime, and improving production efficiencySupport integration of new equipment into existing plant control systemsDevelop electrical schematics, control narratives, and technical system documentationSupport standardization of controls architecture and automation systems across manufacturing facilities Project Engineering & ExecutionLead engineering projects from concept through commissioning and startupDefine project scope, technical requirements, budgets, and project schedulesCoordinate activities with vendors, contractors, operations teams, and maintenance personnelManage installation, startup, and validation activities for new equipment and automation systemsTrack project progress and communicate updates to engineering and plant leadershipEnsure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget Manufacturing & Process SupportSupport plant operations with troubleshooting of manufacturing process and equipment issuesAnalyze equipment and process performance to identify opportunities for improvementAssist with implementation of process optimization initiatives and new technologiesCollaborate with plant leadership on operational initiatives and continuous improvement activities QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Controls, Chemical, Mechanical, or related field) or equivalent experience3–8 years of engineering experience within manufacturing environmentsExperience with PLC programming and industrial control systemsExperience supporting plant operations, manufacturing systems, or process automationPrior project engineering or project leadership experience preferredExperience with HMI/SCADA systems, industrial networking, and electrical controls design strongly preferred Technical SkillsPLC programming experience utilizing Rockwell Software applications including:RS Logix 500RS Logix 5000Studio 5000RSView32FactoryTalk ViewRSNetworxHMI/SCADA systemsIndustrial networking protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, etc.)Electrical controls design and troubleshootingProcess analysis and continuous improvementRoot cause analysis and problem solvingProject management and vendor coordination Desired AttributesStrong troubleshooting and analytical skillsHands-on engineering mindset with the ability to work effectively in plant environmentsStrong communication and cross-functional collaboration skillsAbility to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneouslySelf-driven with a strong sense of ownership and accountabilityContinuous improvement mindset with a focus on operational excellence Additional InformationTravel required to support domestic and international manufacturing facilities as needed (estimated 40–60%)