Automation Engineer
About the role
The Controls Engineer provides multi-site engineering support for manufacturing operations, capital projects, equipment installations, automation systems, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role works closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and OEM suppliers to enhance equipment reliability, manufacturing efficiency, safety, and overall production performance across multiple facilities.
Responsibilities
Design, troubleshoot, and improve industrial electrical systems to support reliable and efficient manufacturing operations.
Develop, modify, and support PLC programs, including Allen-Bradley platforms, to optimize automation performance.
Create and maintain HMI applications to provide clear, user-friendly operator interfaces and process visibility.
Configure, support, and maintain industrial networking infrastructure to ensure robust communication between control systems and equipment.
Maintain, update, and organize electrical drawings and control schematics to reflect current system configurations and standards.
Assist with startup, commissioning, and debugging of new production equipment to achieve stable and efficient operation.
Support automation upgrades and standardize controls across multiple facilities to drive consistency and best practices.
Collaborate with OEMs, system integrators, and contractors on controls-related projects to ensure successful implementation and integration.
Coordinate with mechanical engineers to improve reliability and performance of production lines.
Participate in capital projects and equipment installations, providing technical input and ensuring proper integration of electrical and controls systems.
Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, and Quality teams to identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities in safety, efficiency, and throughput.
Requirements
Proficiency in PLC programming and troubleshooting, preferably with Allen-Bradley platforms.
Experience in HMI development and industrial networking for manufacturing and automation systems.
Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems, including 480V power distribution, motor control centers (MCCs), and variable frequency drives (VFDs).
Hands-on skills in mechanical equipment design and troubleshooting within a manufacturing environment.
Experience in project management and coordination with contractors, OEMs, and system integrators.
Knowledge of pneumatics, hydraulics, conveyors, ovens, packaging equipment, and process systems used in industrial production.
Qualifications
Background in automation engineering or controls engineering in a manufacturing or industrial setting.
Ability to work effectively across multiple facilities and collaborate with cross-functional teams such as Operations, Maintenance, and Quality.
Strong problem-solving skills and a continuous improvement mindset focused on safety, reliability, and efficiency.
Capability to standardize controls and automation practices across different sites to drive consistency and performance.
Skills
Proficiency in PLC programming and troubleshooting, preferably with Allen-Bradley platforms.
Experience in HMI development and industrial networking for manufacturing and automation systems.
Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems, including 480V power distribution, motor control centers (MCCs), and variable frequency drives (VFDs).
Hands-on skills in mechanical equipment design and troubleshooting within a manufacturing environment.
Experience in project management and coordination with contractors, OEMs, and system integrators.
Knowledge of pneumatics, hydraulics, conveyors, ovens, packaging equipment, and process systems used in industrial production.
Benefits
If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Pay
The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $50.00/hr.
Schedule
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Columbus, OH.