Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer – Gainesville, GA or Jefferson, GA

Build the Future of Manufacturing with Kubota

At Kubota, we're transforming manufacturing through advanced automation, smart systems, and continuous innovation. As a Controls Engineer, you'll play a key role in driving the next generation of our production capabilities—designing and deploying cutting-edge mechatronic and automation solutions that improve safety, efficiency, and reliability across our operations.

This is a hands-on, high-impact role where you won't just design systems—you'll bring them to life on the factory floor. Working alongside cross-functional teams, you'll solve complex challenges, integrate emerging technologies, and directly influence how our products are built.

What You'll Do

• Develop, modify, and optimize PLC programs (Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi) for high-performance production equipment
• Partner with manufacturing engineers to design, specify, build, test, and commission new mechatronic systems
• Research emerging technologies and engineer robust, scalable controls solutions
• Lead and support maintenance teams in troubleshooting complex controls issues and minimizing downtime
• Analyze recurring equipment problems, identify root causes, and implement long-term solutions
• Build strong relationships with automation vendors and evaluate new technologies
• Create equipment specifications, manage procurement, and oversee installation of controls hardware
• Collaborate with IT to integrate automation systems with Kubota's MES platform
• Develop and maintain controls standards to ensure consistency across operations
• Produce and maintain engineering documentation (schematics, work instructions, risk assessments)
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and execution from concept through launch
• Support preventive maintenance strategies for automated systems
• Train production and maintenance teams on new technologies and processes
• Communicate system performance and improvement opportunities to diverse stakeholders
• Stay current with automation standards (NEC, NFPA, IEC) and industry trends
• Provide occasional off-shift or weekend support as needed
• Contribute to a collaborative, team-oriented engineering environment

What You Bring

Core Competencies

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Collaborative, team-first mindset
• Excellent analytical and troubleshooting abilities
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Self-motivated with a willingness to learn and adapt
• Flexibility to meet project and production deadlines

Preferred Experience

• Allen-Bradley PLC platforms
• AutoCAD Electrical
• HMI development and design
• MES systems (data collection, visualization, quality, efficiency)
• Project management experience
• Programming experience (Visual Basic, C, C++, Python)

Education

Bachelor's degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field

OR

3+ years of relevant industry experience in software development, programming, or engineering/IT disciplines

Kubota Offers

• Comprehensive medical/dental/vision
• 401k match
• Annual performance bonuses
• Earned time off (ETO)/10 paid company holidays
• Tuition reimbursement
• Stability and growth opportunity

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This role combines office work with hands-on time on the production floor. You'll regularly interact with manufacturing equipment and must be able to stand, walk, use hand tools, and read detailed schematics. Visual acuity, including color and depth perception is essential for troubleshooting and system validation. Reasonable accommodations are available.