Automation and Controls Engineer II

Automation and Controls Engineer II

Phenix City, Alabama, United States

Position Overview

The Automation and Controls Engineer plays a key role in supporting plant operations and driving automation initiatives. This position focuses on electrical systems, control schemes, and automation projects, contributing to both current operations and future plant improvements.

This role is one of two Electrical and Controls Engineer II positions on site and serves as a critical contributor to new projects while ensuring operational reliability.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain safety, product quality, and efficiency by troubleshooting and resolving process issues.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives related to manufacturing processes and product quality.
• Support and enforce safety and environmental compliance.
• Participate actively in daily management and staff meetings.
• Diagnose and resolve complex technical problems.
• Document both legacy and new systems to ensure accuracy and continuity.
• Identify opportunities to increase efficiency through automation and propose modernization plans.
• Support plant IT infrastructure projects as well as HR/Safety systems (security access, cameras).
• Standardize and simplify parts and systems to improve operational consistency.
• Lead electrical/controls scope on large-scale projects (> $1M).
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to achieve plant and business goals.

Work Schedule

• Primarily Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM 4:30 PM.
• Must be flexible to occasionally work alternate schedules based on project needs.
• Expectation to spend ~30% of time on the plant floor.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology.
• 3+ years of control systems engineering experience in manufacturing (continuous and/or discrete).
• Strong electrical and control system engineering background.
• Proficiency with Allen-Bradley PLC and HMI applications (including programming).
• Experience with VFDs, servos, and robotic platforms (ABB, Fanuc).
• Knowledge of NFPA 70E (arc flash and electrical safety).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Ability to work independently and within a team.

Preferred:

• Experience with Cognex Vision Systems, Wonderware, Genetec.
• Fanuc Robotics programming.
• Lean and Six Sigma experience.
• AutoCAD or Visio proficiency.
• Familiarity with ERP systems (SAP or equivalent).
• Experience working in ISO or other structured operating environments.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Must be able to climb ladders, work at heights (up to 50 feet), and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Industrial plant environment with frequent exposure to heavy machinery, heat, humidity, dust, noise, and fumes.
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety shoes, hearing and eye protection, and respirators or dust masks in designated areas.

Compensation & Benefits

• Full benefits package.
• Relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate.
• Interview travel reimbursement provided.