We are seeking an experienced Automation Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, troubleshooting, commissioning, and optimization of automated manufacturing systems. This role is responsible for maintaining and improving PLC-controlled equipment, robotics, sensors, HMIs, and Smart Factory technologies to maximize equipment uptime, production efficiency, system reliability, and product quality.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on problem solver with strong PLC and industrial automation experience who can diagnose complex control-system issues, implement effective corrective actions, and collaborate across engineering, production, quality, and external vendor teams.
Key Responsibilities
Automation & Control Systems
- Design, develop, troubleshoot, modify, and maintain PLC-based control systems for automated manufacturing equipment.
- Program and debug PLC applications, with LS ELECTRIC experience preferred.
- Support the integration, configuration, and operation of sensors, actuators, HMIs, robotics, and other industrial control devices.
- Assist with the installation, startup, setup, commissioning, and validation of automated production equipment.
- Diagnose electrical and controls-related equipment failures and implement reliable corrective solutions.
- Maintain and improve control-system functionality to support safe and consistent production.
Production System Optimization
- Analyze automation and equipment failures to determine root causes and implement corrective and preventive actions.
- Optimize automated systems to improve equipment stability, cycle time, throughput, and overall reliability.
- Support initiatives designed to improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) through controls and automation enhancements.
- Identify opportunities for process automation, equipment upgrades, and system improvements.
- Evaluate existing automation processes and recommend improvements that increase productivity, quality, and operational efficiency.
Smart Factory & MES Support
- Support Smart Factory and digital manufacturing initiatives throughout the production environment.
- Assist with Manufacturing Execution System (MES) integration, data collection, equipment connectivity, and system communication.
- Support real-time production monitoring and the flow of automation and equipment data.
- Help troubleshoot connectivity and communication issues between manufacturing equipment, controls, MES, and other digital systems.
- Contribute to the implementation and continuous improvement of connected manufacturing technologies.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate with Mechanical Engineering, Production, Quality, Maintenance, and other cross-functional teams to resolve manufacturing and equipment issues.
- Provide controls and automation expertise during production troubleshooting and improvement activities.
- Work closely with production teams to identify recurring equipment issues and develop sustainable solutions.
- Coordinate with equipment manufacturers, automation vendors, and external suppliers when specialized support is required.
- Communicate technical findings, recommendations, and project status effectively to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Safety & Compliance
- Ensure electrical, automation, and control systems operate in compliance with applicable safety standards, regulations, and company requirements.
- Identify potential automation-related hazards and implement measures to eliminate or reduce risk.
- Support safe installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and operation of automated production equipment.
- Promote a strong culture of safety throughout all controls and automation activities.
Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate will have strong hands-on experience with industrial automation and controls and the ability to troubleshoot complex manufacturing systems in a fast-paced production environment. Strong PLC programming and debugging skills, analytical problem-solving ability, and effective cross-functional communication are essential to success in this role.
