Controls Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a Robotics & Welding Controls Engineer to support and improve automated manufacturing processes within a Tier 1 automotive environment. This role is heavily focused on robotic welding operations, automation, process optimization, and equipment reliability. While we have reviewed several candidates with robotics experience, our primary need is an engineer who brings a strong combination of both robotics and welding expertise. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience supporting automated welding systems, robotic cells, weld controls, and manufacturing processes while driving continuous improvement initiatives related to quality, throughput, and uptime.

Responsibilities

• Support and optimize robotic welding cells and automated manufacturing systems.
• Develop, modify, and improve robotic and controls programs to enhance production performance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues involving robotic systems, weld controllers, weld schedules, steppers, tip dressers, and associated automation equipment.
• Analyze process performance and implement improvements to increase equipment reliability, quality, and efficiency.
• Lead root cause investigations related to welding defects, downtime, and production concerns.
• Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, maintenance, and engineering teams to improve operational performance.
• Support new product launches, equipment installations, and process improvements.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, standards, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Drive manufacturing excellence through data analysis, problem-solving, and automation improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent automation/manufacturing experience.
• Experience supporting robotic welding applications in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of weld controllers, weld schedules, steppers, welding parameters, and process optimization.
• Experience troubleshooting and improving automated manufacturing systems.
• Knowledge of PLC-controlled equipment and automation systems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical documentation.
• Strong root cause analysis and continuous improvement skills.

Nice to Have

• Experience within a Tier 1 automotive manufacturing environment.
• Experience with supporting high-volume automated production lines.
• Experience with welding process development and optimization.
• Knowledge of controls engineering, industrial automation, and manufacturing systems integration.

Job Type & Location

Contract to Hire position based out of Napoleon, OH. Fully onsite.

Pay

$45.00 - $60.00/hr. Individual compensation depends on qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other job-related factors.

Benefits

If eligible, benefits may include: Medical, dental & vision; Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital; 401(k) Retirement Plan (Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions); Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for 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).