Automation Controls Engineer

Position: Automation Controls Engineer

Location: Westbrook, CT | Full Time

Company Overview:

The Lee Company is a global leader in the design and production of miniature, precision fluid control components for the aerospace, medical/scientific instrument, oil tool, and automotive industries.

Lee Company products are recognized worldwide for superior quality, reliability, and performance. Lee's unique capabilities in miniaturization and engineering keep the company at the forefront of fluid control technology and identify Lee as a leading innovator in the field of fluid handling and control.

Founded in 1948, The Lee Company occupies over one million sq. ft. of modern manufacturing and office space at four sites in Westbrook and Essex, Connecticut, and employs over 1,000 people.

Job Description:

The Automation Controls Engineer is integral to the design, commissioning, and continued support of automated assembly and test equipment. Ideal candidates will have a well-rounded knowledge of the design of automated manufacturing systems and a strong ability to program Allen-Bradley PLCs to interface with robots, servos, solenoid valves, vision systems, process control sensors, conveyors, and other components. Close attention to detail and drive to build on and improve existing systems is required as we develop new and innovative ways to accelerate our manufacturing capabilities.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a related engineering field.
• 5+ years of experience with the design, fabrication, and commissioning of automated assembly and test equipment, specifically in the discipline of electrical controls.
• An advanced level of skill programming Allen-Bradley CompactLogix PLCs from blank projects in ladder logic.
• A well demonstrated knowledge of all I/O interfacing types (Digital, Analog, Fieldbus, Ethernet, Serial) and the evaluation and selection process for them.
• A high level of knowledge in implementing machine safety into the design of equipment by using emergency stops, interlocking doors, safety scanners, and safety relays.
• Wide reaching exposure to various sensors used in machine and process control.
• An advanced level of skill programming 6-axis, collaborative, and SCARA industrial robots, specific experience with Epson, UR and/or Yamaha robots is a plus.
• Experience creating HMI screens that are easy to understand, aesthetically pleasing, and have intuitive navigation schemes.
• Knowledge of SCADA platforms such as Ignition.
• Experience with relational database systems such as MSSQL Server.
• A high level of proficiency in using CAD to create electrical schematics for industrial control panels and field wiring.
• Experience selecting and programing vision system components based on the application requirements, specific experience with Cognex and/or Keyence is a plus.
• Linear motion control experience using servo and stepper driven systems.
• A working knowledge of different part feeding methods, such as traditional bowl feeders and alternative flexible vibratory types.

Responsibilities:

The Automation Controls Engineer will interface with automation equipment and contribute to cross-functional project teams in three key areas - new equipment developed on-site, new equipment developed using outside resources, and the continuous improvement of existing equipment in production.

New equipment developed on-site:

• Be on the forefront of new machine designs, working closely with the mechanical and other engineering teams to develop the controls systems that will bring the machines to life.
• Develop Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&ID).
• Create electrical control panel schematics and layouts following applicable codes and guidelines such as NFPA79 and NEC using CAD, ensuring the design meets all safety requirements.
• Conceptualize, write, and deploy software on Allen-Bradley CompactLogix PLCs using ladder logic following company standards for code cleanliness, reusability, and documentation.
• Design and deploy aesthetically pleasing and intuitive HMI screens following company standards.
• Integrate and program all components required for machine operation such as robots, servo drives, vision systems, conveyor systems, and pneumatic solenoid valves.
• Manage electrical design changes and updates during the build phase, including the layout of field wiring and pneumatic components.

New equipment developed using outside resources:

• Work with vendors on the electrical design and review phases of projects to ensure conformance to applicable company standards.
• Document and maintain best practices and preferred component lists to promote continuity across multiple projects.
• Develop testing procedures to verify vendor PLC code, HMI screen integrity, and Alarm management to minimize potential downtime after delivery.

Existing equipment in production:

• Install new hardware and perform modifications on existing equipment software to improve reliability, increase throughput or accommodate new assembly steps.
• Become an expert on existing machinery to assist with troubleshooting when required.
• Participate in quality validation procedures using statistical methods such as Gage R&R, and Process Capability & Performance.

Pay Range and Compensation Package:

The compensation range for this position is $85,000-$105,000 annually and is dependent on experience. Individual pay may adjust over time based on skill development, performance, and career progression within the role. The Lee Company offers an attractive range of benefits including company-paid health insurance, profit sharing, tuition reimbursement, and daycare subsidy.

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All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.