Automation & Controls Engineer

Precision Castpart · State College, PA · 3 days ago

EngineeringFull-time

About the role

We are seeking a hands‑on Automation & Controls Engineer to lead the integration of Industry 4.0 manufacturing equipment into a unified, data‑enabled ecosystem within a new aerospace fastener manufacturing facility. This role is responsible for PLC programming, machine connectivity, and ensuring reliable, high‑quality data capture across all production systems. The individual will play a critical role in transforming standalone equipment into a fully connected smart factory, enabling real‑time visibility, enhanced control, and data‑driven optimization. The ideal candidate brings strong experience with manufacturing equipment, industrial automation, and communication protocols, along with a practical, solutions‑oriented approach to system integration.

Responsibilities

Machine Integration & Connectivity

Integrate a variety of CNC machines, heading equipment, roll forming systems, robotics, and material handling systems into plant‑wide networks
Configure industrial communication between machines, PLCs, and higher‑level systems (MES, SCADA, IIoT platforms)
Ensure reliable and standardized data capture from all connected assets

PLC Programming & Controls

Develop, program, and troubleshoot PLC logic and HMI interfaces
Support commissioning and startup of automated equipment
Maintain and optimize control systems for performance and reliability

Data Acquisition & Signal Integrity

Deploy and validate sensors and data collection systems
Ensure accuracy, consistency, and reliability of machine‑generated data
Collaborate with digital teams to structure and deliver usable data

System Commissioning & Support

Support installation, testing, and ramp‑up of new equipment
Troubleshoot integration issues across automation and network layers
Drive continuous improvement in system performance and uptime

Future Automation Planning

Plan future automation and machine learning initiatives as part of continuous improvement efforts

Requirements

Experience & Education

4–7+ years of experience in industrial automation and controls
Strong PLC programming experience (Allen‑Bradley or Siemens)
Experience with industrial networking and machine integration
Bachelor’s degree in Mechatronics, Electrical, Industrial, Automation, or other related Engineering discipline

Qualifications

Preferred

Experience with CNC, forming, or precision manufacturing equipment
Familiarity with SCADA, MES, and IIoT systems
Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (OPC UA, Ethernet/IP, Profinet)
Understanding and experience with Digital Twins (e.g., Omniverse, Siemens Digital Twin, Ansys Twin Builder, GE Digital, Microsoft Azure Digital Twins)
Experience launching new facilities, major capital expenditure projects, or expansions
Familiarity with aerospace, automotive, medical, or other highly regulated manufacturing fields

Additional Information

Relocation is authorized for this position.

This position requires use of information or access to production processes subject to national security controls under U.S. export control laws and regulations (including ITAR and EAR). Applicants must be U.S. Persons (U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, or protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or Commerce.

Precision Castparts Corp. (PCC) operates more than 120 facilities worldwide with approximately 20,000 employees. PCC is the market leader in manufacturing large, complex structural investment castings, airfoil castings, forged components, aerostructures, and highly engineered critical fasteners for aerospace applications, as well as airfoil castings for industrial gas turbines, extruded seamless pipe, fittings, and forgings for power generation and oil & gas. Since 2016, PCC has been a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway.