Paint Automation Engineer - SATX
With over 80 years of innovation, JCB is the world’s largest privately owned manufacturer of construction and agricultural equipment. Operating 23 manufacturing facilities across four continents—including the United States, the United Kingdom, India, and Brazil—JCB produces a diverse portfolio of more than 300 products, including telescopic handlers, backhoe loaders, excavators, wheel loaders, compact excavators, skid steer loaders, compact track loaders, access aerial work platforms, rough terrain forklifts, and tractors. As a family-owned business, JCB focuses on long-term innovation and delivering real value, standing behind its products with pride and commitment to quality.
About the Role
The Paint Shop Controls Engineer is responsible for developing, maintaining, and optimizing automation systems that support paint shop operations. This role ensures reliable performance of PLC, SCADA, and industrial control systems while driving efficiency, data visibility, and continuous improvement across manufacturing processes.
Position Type: Full Time, FLSA Exempt
Location: 13210 Palo Alto Rd., San Antonio, TX., 78264
Responsibilities
- Develop, program, and troubleshoot PLC systems (Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, Beckhoff)
- Create and maintain control logic using Ladder Logic, Function Block, and Structured Text
- Design and support SCADA systems using Ignition (dashboards, alarms, historian trends, reporting)
- Integrate PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, and third-party devices using EtherNet/IP, OPC UA, and MQTT
- Configure and maintain industrial networks, instrumentation, and drive systems
- Support plant commissioning, startup, and system upgrades
- Analyze production data, KPIs, and historian trends to improve efficiency and throughput
- Optimize control strategies, including PID loops and automation sequences
- Develop OEE, downtime, and predictive maintenance dashboards
- Implement fault diagnostics, alarm rationalization, and predictive alerts
- Standardize PLC code, naming conventions, and HMI design practices
- Support MES/ERP data integration and automation data visibility
- Monitor and improve energy usage and process sustainability
- Troubleshoot automation and network issues to minimize downtime
- Other duties as assigned
Requirements
- 3+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering or industrial automation
- Experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment
- Strong understanding of industrial control systems, instrumentation, and networking
- Experience in paint shop, surface finishing, or similar industrial processes preferred
- Familiarity with safety and environmental regulations in manufacturing
- Must pass required background check, drug screening, and pre-employment assessments
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related technical field
- Rockwell Automation ControlLogix/CompactLogix certification
- Ignition (Inductive Automation) certification
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies
- Experience with MES/ERP system integration
Skills
- Proficient with PLC platforms (Rockwell, Beckhoff) and Studio 5000
- Strong SCADA development experience (Ignition platform)
- Experience with Ladder Logic, Function Block, and Structured Text programming
- Knowledge of EtherNet/IP, OPC UA, and industrial communication protocols
- Electrical controls design, panel troubleshooting, and diagnostics
- Data analysis and visualization skills for manufacturing performance metrics
- Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis capabilities
- Effective communication and ability to present technical solutions
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- Continuous improvement mindset with strong attention to detail
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and Microsoft Project
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Paid time off and paid holidays
Job Conditions
- Both office environment and occasionally manufacturing/factory environment
- Subject to noise and temperature changes
Physical Requirements
- Must be able to work flexible schedule, including Friday - Sunday 6am -6pm
- Must be able to regularly lift and/or move up to 10lbs, frequently and/or move up to 35lbs, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50lbs
- Must be able to perform continuous, repetitious physical activities involving fine movements or large motions
- Must be able to grasp/pinch small items, reach out and up, and turn wrist
- Must be capable of keeping pace with current production speed
- Must be able to push/pull with reasonable force
- Must be able to perform bending, stooping, climbing, kneeling, and standing for extended periods of time
- Must be able to work in multiple climates including hot/cold temperatures, and dusty environment