JOB DESCRIPTION
We are seeking a hands-on and solutions-oriented Controls Engineer to support and improve automated manufacturing systems within a high-volume automotive production environment. This role is responsible for troubleshooting, maintaining, and optimizing PLCs, robotics, and plant-floor automation systems while driving continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, reliability, and productivity. The Controls Engineer will partner closely with maintenance and operations teams to support equipment performance and implement automation enhancements.
Key Responsibilities
- Support maintenance teams with troubleshooting and corrective actions for automated equipment.
- Diagnose and modify PLC ladder logic within Allen-Bradley ControlLogix systems.
- Maintain PLC documentation, machine control drawings, and automation program archives.
- Troubleshoot and improve automated manufacturing equipment and control systems.
- Support HMIs, scanners, sensors, remote I/O, relays, solenoids, and servo drives.
- Improve equipment uptime and plant reliability.
- Schedule and maintain backups of machine control programs and robotic systems.
- Develop and support preventive maintenance programs for automation equipment.
- Troubleshoot hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, electrical, and electronic systems.
- Implement and maintain production data collection systems.
- Identify and implement error-proofing solutions within manufacturing processes.
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to maintenance personnel.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, and safety.
Qualifications
Required:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field, or equivalent experience.
- Minimum 2 years of Controls Engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Experience with Allen-Bradley RSLogix 5000.
- Experience with ControlLogix PLCs.
- Experience with PanelView HMI systems.
- Experience with FactoryTalk Optix development software.
- PLC troubleshooting experience on automated equipment.
- Fanuc robotics experience.
- Knowledge of industrial networking concepts.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Strong computer skills and ability to learn new applications.
Preferred:
- Automotive manufacturing experience.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles.
- Experience participating in JIT, Kaizen, or continuous improvement initiatives.
- Experience with system specification, equipment procurement, installation, startup, and qualification.
- Ability to create 2D layouts using CAD software.
Salary Range: $90,000 - $115,000
Schedule: Full-Time, Monday-Friday - 1st Shift, On-Site - Overtime as required
Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
Additional Information
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States and meet all employment eligibility requirements.
This position is expected to support and promote all health, safety, and environmental standards, including reporting workplace injuries, incidents, and unsafe conditions.
This job description outlines the primary responsibilities of the role and is not intended to be a complete list of duties. Additional responsibilities may be assigned as business needs require.
PRIMARY LOCATION
Normal
