Automation Controls - PLC Programmer

Applied Medical

Rancho Santa Margarita, California

JOB DETAILS
SALARY
$85,000–$135,000 Per Year
SKILLS
Analysis Skills, Automation, Automation Systems, Budget Management, Business Growth, Business Model, Communication Skills, Compensation and Benefits, Component Selection, Computer Engineering, Computer Programming, Continuous Improvement, Control Engineering, Control Systems, Corrective Action, Cost Control, Cross-Functional, Documentation, Electrical Design, Electrical Wiring, Electricity, HMI Software, Healthcare, Human Machine Interface (HMI), Identify Issues, Knowledge Transfer, Manufacturing, Manufacturing/Industrial Processes, Medical Equipment, Mentoring, Motion Control, Problem Solving Skills, Process Improvement, Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), Regulatory Compliance, Regulatory Requirements, Reimbursement, Requirements Management, Robotics, Root Cause Analysis, Safety Standards, Safety Systems, Schematics, Software Design, Software Specification, Standards of Care, System Architecture, System Integration (SI), System Operations, Team Player, Technical Writing, Test Plan/Schedule, Time Management, Validation Plan, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Rancho Santa Margarita, California
POSTED
30+ days ago
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Applied-Medical-Logo-w-Tag_H_Teal_cropped

Applied Medical is a new-generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field. Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute to a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions. 

Position Description:

Are you ready to be at the forefront of revolutionizing medical device manufacturing? As a Controls Engineer within our Automation team, you'll be working on-site at our global headquarters, pioneering cutting-edge machines, collaborating across departments, and leading the way in cost reduction while optimizing manufacturing processes. It's your chance to make an enduring impact on the future of healthcare.  

 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Design and implement electrical and pneumatic control systems, including schematics, component selection, and panel layouts, to support scalable and high-performance automation solutions.
  • Develop, test, and maintain Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and Human Machine Interface (HMI) software to ensure intuitive, reliable, and compliant machine control interfaces.
  • Integrate robotics, motion control, sensors, and safety systems into cohesive automation platforms that meet production and regulatory requirements.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot equipment issues, reduce downtime, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Translate user and stakeholder requirements into clear technical specifications that guide system architecture and development.
  • Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for automation failures, ensuring rapid resolution and long-term reliability.
  • Author and maintain detailed documentation, including software design specifications, maintenance procedures, and validation protocols, to support regulatory compliance and knowledge sharing.

What Success Looks Like in This Role

  • Automation systems are delivered on time, within budget, and meet all performance and compliance requirements.
  • PLC and HMI programs are robust, user-friendly, and minimize operator errors.
  • Robotics and control systems operate seamlessly, reducing cycle times and improving production efficiency.
  • Equipment downtime is minimized through proactive troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Documentation is clear, comprehensive, and supports smooth audits and knowledge transfer.
  • Stakeholders view you as a trusted technical partner who drives innovation and cost reduction in manufacturing processes.

 

Position Requirements:
  • Work onsite in a collaborative team environment.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience.
  • Experience designing and programming PLCs, HMIs, and control systems.
  • Strong understanding of electrical and pneumatic systems, safety standards, and wiring practices.
  • Hands-on experience with robotics, motion control, vision systems, and system integration.
  • Ability to write clear technical documentation and communicate effectively.
  • Willingness to learn and grow in a dynamic environment.
Preferred:
  • Experience with safety PLCs and machine safety systems.
  • Familiarity with industrial sensors, pneumatics, and motion control components.
  • Ability to collaborate with vendors and cross-functional teams.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Experience in regulated manufacturing environments.

If you are excited about making a significant impact, driving innovation, and contributing to a dynamic team, we encourage you to apply and embark on an exciting journey of engineering excellence at Applied Medical. Our unique business model empowers our team members to have a substantial impact, unlike conventional roles. 

 

Benefits:
  • Competitive compensation range: $85000 - $135000 / year (California).
  • Comprehensive benefits package.
  • Training and mentorship opportunities.
  • On-campus wellness activities.
  • Education reimbursement program.
  • 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
  • Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply.

 

Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well-being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.

 

All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements.

 

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.

About the Company

A

Applied Medical

Through a collaborative and team-based work environment, Applied Medical develops innovative products that improve patient outcomes and enable the advancement of minimally invasive surgery.

As a new generation medical device company, we are equally committed to improving the affordability and accessibility of high-quality healthcare. We are proud to have a significant and sustainable impact on healthcare by delivering technologies that enhance clinical care and satisfy the pressing economic needs of our customers. 

As a result of our dedication to understanding and satisfying our customers’ clinical and fiscal needs, we are a leading provider of breakthrough technologies for Minimally Invasive and General Surgery, as well as Cardiac, Vascular, Urologic, Colorectal, Bariatric, Obstetric, and Gynecologic specialties. 

Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Southern California, Applied Medical is a rapidly growing, global organization with approximately 4,000 team members. We are proud to provide our products and unique business model to more than 75 countries.

COMPANY SIZE
2,500 to 4,999 employees
INDUSTRY
Medical Devices and Supplies
FOUNDED
1987
WEBSITE
http://www.appliedmedical.com/