Automation & Controls Engineer

Job Type: Contract to Hire

• Compensation: $70,000 – $105,000 annually
• Note: This position is expected to convert to a permanent role upon completion of initial contract terms.

Overview

We’re seeking a hands-on Automation & Controls Engineer to support a fast-paced manufacturing operation. This role focuses on improving and maintaining automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and instrumentation, while partnering closely with production and maintenance teams to enhance performance, reliability, and safety.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys solving complex technical challenges and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives in an industrial environment.

What You’ll Do

• Support and modify PLC programs to improve operational efficiency
• Troubleshoot automation, communication, and HMI-related issues
• Maintain backups and ensure system reliability
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams on process improvements
• Lead initiatives to enhance automation stability and reduce downtime
• Analyze system performance data and recommend improvements
• Assist with equipment upgrades, installations, and modifications
• Participate in failure analysis and corrective action planning
• Improve alarm systems and operator interface functionality
• Support outage planning and scheduled maintenance activities

Technical Responsibilities

PLC & Controls Systems

Experience with one or more of the following

Siemens (S7 / TIA Portal)

Allen-Bradley

GE / Emerson controllers (RX3i, Innovation Series, Genius I/O)

Toshiba NV

HMI / SCADA Systems

Ignition

Cimplicity

WinCC

Rockwell Automation platforms

Additional Expertise

• Industrial networks (Profibus, Profinet preferred)
• Motors, drives, and AC/DC control systems
• Data acquisition tools (IBA/PDA preferred)

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field
• Minimum 5 years of experience in manufacturing automation
• Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to manage projects from concept through implementation
• Experience working in both office and plant floor environments
• Strong communication and problem-solving abilities
• Detail-oriented with a continuous improvement mindset

Work Environment & Culture

• Team-oriented and safety-focused workplace
• Opportunities to contribute to process innovation and efficiency
• Support for ongoing learning and career development
• Exposure to large-scale industrial systems and operations

Compensation & Benefits (Upon Conversion)

Medical, dental, and vision coverage (day-one eligibility)

401(k) with company match

Life and disability insurance

Paid parental leave

Employee assistance programs

Tuition reimbursement

Performance-based bonus opportunities

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.