Controls Engineer, Powder Coat, Megafactory

The Manufacturing Controls Engineer is responsible for sustaining, improving, and designing automated manufacturing equipment for the production line. They collaborate with test engineers and equipment engineers to maintain existing automated equipment, troubleshoot PLC-based equipment, and identify opportunities for process enhancement through new automation components. Paint Shop and Powder Coat environment with strong controls engineering fundamentals, the ideal candidate is independent, proactive, hands-on, and detail-oriented.

• Lead continuous improvement efforts using data-driven solutions to create a reliable and efficient manufacturing plant

• Support production ramp-up by troubleshooting mechanical automation equipment, PLCs, robots, motion controls, and vision systems

• Develop and maintain PLCs and HMI software to optimize operator and maintenance technician experience and ensure high-quality production

• Contribute to equipment conceptual development, considering product specifications, process control requirements, layout complexity, cost, quality, and lead time

• Create and approve electrical schematics, optimize equipment for safety and efficiency, and update HMI systems for complex machinery

• Address equipment issues, troubleshoot PLCs and robot-related production problems, and develop maintenance documentation and training materials

• Drive continuous improvement of automated equipment to enhance safety, quality, productivity, and cost metrics

• Conduct risk assessments and lead safety evaluations for equipment prior to launch

• Preferred working experience in Paint Shops, or tools such as Atlas Copco Fastening tools

• Support 24/7 production operations as needed

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent relevant experience

• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience as a mechanical/manufacturing controls engineer working with automation and electromechanical systems

• Advanced proficiency in programming industrial equipment using IEC 61131-3 languages, particularly structured text and ladder logic

• Experience with PLCs (Siemens, SICAR protocol) and Safety PLCs

• Proficiency in Human Machine Interface (HMI)/SCADA systems (SIMATIC WinCC (TIA Portal)), or Ignition SCADA)

• Knowledge of Ethernet communications, script-based programming (Python, C++, GO) preferred, motor drives (SEW EURODRIVE or AB PowerFlex), and field bus networks

• Ability to select and integrate circuit protectors, sensors, safety hardware, PLC hardware, and other components

• Preferred experience in programming robots (Cartesian, SCARA, and Articulated)

• Proven troubleshooting skills, root cause analysis, and problem-solving under tight timing constraints

• Proficiency in 3D CAD packages such as SolidWorks and CATIA is a plus