Vision and Controls Engineer

JOB EMPHASIS AND PURPOSE

The Vision and Controls Engineer is responsible for programming, developing, integrating, and supporting the machine vision inspection systems and PLC based controls used across the plant. This role owns automated inspection applications for defect detection, dimensional verification, and process monitoring, and ensures those systems communicate reliably with production equipment. The Engineer takes vision and controls projects from concept through installation, commissioning, validation, and ongoing production support, working closely with Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, and Operations to improve product quality, equipment reliability, and production performance.

GENERAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Machine Vision and Inspection Systems

• Program, develop, calibrate, and troubleshoot industrial machine vision and dimensional inspection systems (ZEISS, Keyence, Cognex, FARO, or similar).
• Develop and fine tune automated inspection applications for defect detection, dimensional verification, surface inspection, pattern recognition, and process monitoring.
• Select and configure cameras, sensors, lenses, lighting, inspection parameters, tolerances, and pass/fail criteria.
• Validate inspection performance and adjust applications to reduce false rejects and missed defects.

PLC and Controls Programming

• Program, troubleshoot, and modify PLC based automation systems using Ladder Logic and Structured Text.
• Support Allen Bradley/Rockwell Automation (including ControlLogix), Omron, AutomationDirect, Mitsubishi, and similar PLC platforms.
• Configure and support HMIs, AC/DC drives, servo motors, sensors, and industrial safety systems.

Vision and PLC Integration

• Integrate vision systems with PLC controlled equipment, including inspection triggering, result transfer, and pass/fail communication.
• Program reject systems, alarms, and equipment stops based on inspection results.
• Collect and report production and quality data from inspection and controls systems.
• Integrate equipment over industrial networks and protocols such as EtherNet/IP, TCP/IP, fieldbus, PLC networks, and SCADA.

Projects, Installation and Commissioning

• Own vision and controls projects from concept and development through installation, commissioning, validation, and production support.
• Develop and modify electrical schematics, machine components, and CAD models as needed.
• Provide training to operators and maintenance personnel on new and existing systems.

Troubleshooting and Continuous Improvement

• Diagnose issues across PLC logic, vision systems, electrical controls, mechanical systems, sensors, communications, and production processes.
• Determine root cause and implement lasting corrective actions.
• Identify and implement improvements in defect reduction, equipment reliability, and new technologies that improve quality and production performance.

Support

• Communicate technical concepts, project requirements, troubleshooting findings, and proposed solutions to Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, and Operations.
• Assist other production areas as needed.
• Participate in meetings with the Maintenance and Engineering Manager to discuss planning, needs, and project status.
• Promote and follow all safety procedures, plans, and programs.

Miscellaneous

• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education / Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.
• Equivalent hands on industrial vision and controls experience may be considered in place of a degree.
• Strong experience with Ladder Logic and Structured Text on Allen Bradley/Rockwell Automation (including ControlLogix), Omron, AutomationDirect, Mitsubishi, or similar PLC platforms.
• Hands on experience with machine vision and dimensional inspection systems such as ZEISS, Keyence, Cognex, FARO, or similar preferred.

Skills / Specialized Knowledge / Abilities

• Industrial electrical experience a plus, including reading, troubleshooting, and developing schematics for control panels, relays, motors, drives, power supplies, and low voltage control circuits.
• Experience with complex mechanical systems, CAD modeling, and equipment design is beneficial.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications: Word, Excel, etc.
• Advanced attention to detail and accuracy in all work.
• Teamwork oriented and dependable.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Working Hours / Environment

• Standard hours with flexibility to support production schedules, installations, and commissioning; may require early or late hours periodically.
• Work is performed both in a plant/production environment and an office setting.

Tools and Equipment

• Personal computer, programming software, copier, cell phone, multimeter and electrical test equipment, hand and electrical tools, scissor lift. Appropriate PPE will be assigned as required. This may include safety glasses, gloves, hat or hairnet, hearing protection.

Travel

• Minimal; occasional travel to vendors or equipment suppliers may be required.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Ability to stand and work on concrete for extended periods of time.
• Ability to sit at a desk/workstation and work at a computer for long periods of time.
• Ability to squat, bend at waist, kneel, etc.
• Digital dexterity and hand/eye coordination in working on control panels and equipment.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds on occasion, using proper lifting techniques and processes.
• Ability to compare, problem solve, analyze, instruct, interpret, etc.
• Ability to speak and hear employees in problematic situations (loud environments).
• May require the ability to work at heights exceeding 50 feet.

FLSA STATUS: EXEMPT

INCUMBENT:

SUPERVISOR: Maintenance and Engineering Manager

SUPERVISES: None

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and the employee will also perform other reasonably related business duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor and other management as required. This job description should not be construed, to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or work conditions associated with the job. Furthermore, the employer reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.

This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Atkins & Pearce is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We encourage all people to apply regardless of age, gender, gender expression or criminal conviction history.

This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. Atkins & Pearce makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.