Controls Engineer - Custom Automation

About the role

ATC Automation is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join our team in Cookeville, TN. In this role, you will design, program, troubleshoot, and commission control systems for custom automation equipment. You will work on projects from concept through completion, helping transform customer requirements into innovative, reliable, and high-performing automated systems. The ideal candidate brings strong controls and automation experience, along with a passion for solving complex technical problems. You will work closely with mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and project engineering teams to develop complete automation solutions using PLCs, HMIs, robotics, motion control, vision systems, and industrial networks.

Since 1977, ATC Automation has been redefining what's possible in custom automation. From concept to commissioning, we partner with leading brands across the globe to design and deliver custom machinery that drives efficiency, precision, and long-term performance. Our automation expertise spans critical industries that shape the way we live and move—Life Science, Transportation, Consumer Products, and General Industry.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and integrate controls systems for custom automation equipment.
• Develop and modify PLC, HMI, motion control, robotics, and other automation software.
• Create and review electrical schematics and controls documentation.
• Integrate electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, robotic, vision, and controls systems.
• Troubleshoot and debug equipment during assembly, startup, testing, and commissioning.
• Participate in machine startup, system testing, and customer acceptance activities.
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial communication networks and control system hardware.
• Develop machine sequences, control logic, alarms, operator interfaces, and system functionality.
• Support the development and implementation of machine safety systems.
• Work closely with Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing, and Project Management throughout the life of a project.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting assistance during machine installation and startup.
• Research and evaluate new controls technologies, components, and programming methods.
• Maintain project schedules and priorities while supporting multiple automation projects.
• Travel periodically as required to support equipment installation, startup, customer meetings, and project activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related engineering field.
• Experience designing, programming, or troubleshooting PLC-based control systems.
• Experience with electrical controls and automated machinery.
• Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and control system documentation.
• Strong understanding of industrial automation, machine controls, and electrical systems.
• Experience troubleshooting complex automation equipment and identifying root causes.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented engineering environment.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while meeting project deadlines.
• Experience with Allen-Bradley/Studio 5000, Siemens/TIA Portal, HMI programming, robotics