Manufacturing Controls Development Engineer

Kforce has a client is seeking a Manufacturing Controls Development Engineer who will be supporting automation and AMR integration initiatives at the Gigafactory in Reno, NV. This is a highly technical, commissioning-focused role for someone with strong Siemens PLC programming experience and a proven track record delivering automation projects from development through startup. Summary: We are specifically seeking engineers who can clearly articulate the projects they have personally delivered, their direct contributions, and their hands-on Siemens PLC programming experience. The ideal candidate has built and commissioned systems from the ground up, understands controls development, and can work independently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This is not a production support role. Team & Project Overview: The Engineer will be supporting Siemens and FANUC-based automation systems across material handling, conveyors, lifters, ASRS, shuttle systems, and AMR deployments. This team owns controls development, safety systems, integration, and commissioning activities-not production support. The primary initiative is the rollout and integration of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) into manufacturing production lines and automation cells. Duties:

• Develop, modify, and implement Siemens PLC logic using TIA Portal
• Commission automation equipment and production systems
• Integrate AMRs with manufacturing automation cells
• Configure and commission safety systems, light curtains, and area scanners
• Troubleshoot electrical, controls, networking, and integration issues
• Perform commissioning during production downtime and startup windows
• Work independently with minimal direction while managing multiple projects
• 3+ years of hands-on Siemens PLC programming experience
• Ideal Backgrounds: robotics, materials handling, warehouse automation, and high-volume manufacturing environments
• Strong TIA Portal, Ladder Logic, and STL experience
• Proven controls development and commissioning background
• Experience building and implementing new systems, not just supporting existing production lines
• Industrial networking experience (Profinet, TCP/IP, Ethernet, CAN)
• Experience with conveyors, robotics, material handling, or AMR systems
• Strong electrical troubleshooting and debugging skills
• Ability to work autonomously and navigate ambiguity

Preferred:

• SICK safety scanners and Safety Designer software
• Safety PLC programming and commissioning
• Automation safety standards
• G120/G115 and SEW drive commissioning
• Ignition experience
• Automotive, robotics, warehouse automation, or distribution center backgrounds

Candidates must demonstrate real-world experience developing, programming, integrating, and commissioning automation systems rather than simply troubleshooting or maintaining existing equipment. Strong experience with Siemens TIA Portal, safety systems, industrial networking, and AMR or material handling applications will be key differentiators. Position Details:

• Type: Contract
• Duration: Initial 8-week approval period with strong extension potential up to 6 months or longer based on performance
• Start Date: ASAP
• Schedule: 50 hours/week standard; Flexibility required for commissioning and production support during off-hours as needed