About this position
Key Responsibilities:
Controls Design & Programming
- Design, program, and maintain PLC, HMI, and control systems for manufacturing equipment and smoker products
- Develop control logic for temperature regulation, airflow, combustion, and safety interlocks
- Create and maintain electrical schematics, I/O lists, and control documentation
Manufacturing & Production Support
- Provide hands-on troubleshooting support for production line control systems
- Diagnose and resolve electrical, controls, and automation issues impacting throughput and quality
- Support commissioning and startup of new equipment and production lines
Product & Process Development
- Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams during new product introduction (NPI)
- Support integration of sensors, motors, actuators, and communication protocols
- Assist in the development and testing of embedded control systems for smoker products
Testing, Validation & Safety
- Support functional testing, validation, and verification of control systems
- Ensure systems comply with applicable electrical and safety standards
- Implement safe machine control practices, including emergency stops and fault detection
Continuous Improvement & Documentation
- Identify opportunities to improve system reliability, efficiency, and performance
- Support engineering change orders (ECOs) related to controls and electrical systems
- Maintain accurate documentation, software version control, and backups
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work with maintenance, IT, and operations teams to support automation infrastructure
- Communicate with vendors and integrators for equipment and control system support
- Provide training and guidance to technicians and operators as needed
Qualifications:
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field
- 3–7+ years of experience in controls or automation engineering within a manufacturing environment
- Experience with thermal control systems, motors, and industrial sensors preferred
Technical Skills
- PLC programming experience (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar platforms)
- HMI development and troubleshooting
- Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, etc.)
- Ability to read and create electrical schematics and panel layouts
- Familiarity with safety standards and machine controls
Soft Skills
- Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills
- Effective communication across engineering, operations, and maintenance teams
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
- Hands-on, solution-oriented mindset