Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation, or a related field or equivalent experience
• 3+ years of experience in controls engineering, preferably in food manufacturing or a similar industry
• Proficiency in programming and troubleshooting PLCs (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens), HMIs, and SCADA systems
• Strong knowledge of electrical systems, robotics, and industrial automation technologies
• Experience with project management, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively across multiple facilities and teams
• Willingness to travel to support multiple production facilities as needed (up to 50% travel)

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) systems, HMI (Human-Machine Interface) panels, and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems
• Develop and implement control system solutions to improve production efficiency, product quality, and equipment reliability
• Lead the integration of new equipment and automation technologies into existing production lines
• Create and maintain electrical schematics, control system documentation, and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Provide on-site and remote support to multiple production facilities to resolve control system issues and minimize downtime
• Diagnose and troubleshoot complex electrical, mechanical, and software-related problems in control systems
• Collaborate with maintenance, production, and engineering teams to identify root causes of equipment failures and implement corrective actions
• Conduct regular system audits to ensure control systems are operating efficiently and in compliance with safety and regulatory standards
• Manage controls-related projects, including scope definition, budgeting, scheduling, and resource allocation
• Coordinate with external vendors, contractors, and internal stakeholders to ensure timely and successful project completion
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and validation of new control systems and equipment upgrades
• Ensure all projects adhere to food safety regulations (e.g., FDA, USDA, HACCP) and electrical standards (e.g., NFPA 70, NEC)
• Identify opportunities to optimize control systems and processes through data analysis, automation, and advanced technologies
• Implement lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies to drive operational excellence
• Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in controls engineering and automation
• Train maintenance and production staff on the operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of control systems
• Develop training materials and conduct hands-on workshops to enhance technical skills across facilities
• Ensure all control systems comply with food safety regulations (e.g., GMP, HACCP) and electrical safety standards (e.g., OSHA, NFPA 70E)
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safety measures to protect personnel and equipment
• Maintain accurate records of control system modifications, repairs, and compliance documentation

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent certification
• Experience with food safety standards (e.g., FDA, USDA, HACCP) and regulatory requirements
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies
• Familiarity with advanced manufacturing technologies, such as IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) and machine learning