Controls Engineer

About the role

At AST, we enhance the efficiency, productivity, and safety of flexible aseptic manufacturing processes for the worldwide Life Science Industry by offering innovative products, services, and solutions. We strive to build a workplace that enables every team member to meet and exceed their capabilities, providing challenging and rewarding work with opportunities for personal and professional development.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop control systems for complex automated systems using programmable logic controllers (PLC), robotic systems, human‑machine interface (HMI) platforms, vision systems, and other advanced technologies.
• Develop complex software, schematics, control systems, and smart technologies for machine automation, digital products, and services.
• Take product designs from conceptual phase to practical solution and market.
• Work closely with peers, vendors, and technology platforms to provide controls and technological solutions.
• Perform testing, evaluation, and reporting on new products and systems.
• Write operations and maintenance manuals and other technical documents.
• Participate in the installation, startup, and acceptance testing of equipment at customer sites.
• Maintain technical records, test results, and documentation in support of design and performance history.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accredited electrical engineering or related engineering curriculum, or equivalent experience.
• Experience with common industrial programming languages, HMI design, industrial communications, smart machine, AI/machine learning, machine automation hardware/software, and advanced sensory systems including machine vision.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 15% as needed.
• Understanding of industrial machinery specifications and standards.
• Knowledge of machine control system design and testing environments with strong electrical acumen.
• Proficiency with Allen‑Bradley PLC platform, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Collaborative team player who works well interdepartmentally and cross‑functionally.
• Strategic thinker with strong problem‑solving and root‑cause analysis skills.
• Self‑motivated, energetic, disciplined, with keen attention to detail.
• Character that aligns with AST’s culture of high integrity.
• Senior roles may include additional lead responsibilities.

Eligibility Requirements

• Legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Willingness to take and successfully pass a drug test.

Benefits

• Medical coverage (HSA & PPO)
• Dental and vision insurance
• Long‑ and short‑term disability
• HSA account with employer contribution
• 401(k) with Traditional & Roth options and up to 5% company match
• Education assistance
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
• Bonus potential

Pay

Compensation for onsite Washington applicants is $80,000‑$120,000 annually, with additional bonus potential.

Schedule

Full‑time position based in Tacoma.