Manufacturing Electrical Controls Engineer

Manufacturing Electrical Controls Engineer

We are seeking a Manufacturing Electrical Controls Engineer to support manufacturing operations by improving production efficiency, optimizing manufacturing processes, and leading automation and controls projects across multiple facilities. Thisrole is responsible for providing electrical and controls engineering expertise, including PLC and HMI programming, automation integration, equipment upgrades, troubleshooting, and continuous process improvement initiatives.

Travel: Approximately 75 to 80%, including travel throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with Operations leadership to identify, define, and execute engineering projects that improve manufacturing performance.
• Lead engineering projects across multiple facilities while managing budgets, schedules, and project deliverables.
• Evaluate and optimize manufacturing workflows, production layouts, and equipment utilization.
• Design, review, and implement modifications to production equipment, with a strong focus on electrical controls and automation systems.
• Analyze manufacturing processes and implement improvements that increase productivity, efficiency, reliability, and workplace safety.
• Provide technical support for PLC-based hardware and software systems while troubleshooting electrical, mechanical, and automation issues.
• Design and integrate new automation solutions, including PLCs, HMIs, motors, drives, sensors, and related control hardware.
• Develop PLC programs and HMI interfaces for new and existing manufacturing systems.
• Perform system testing, commissioning, and validation to ensure equipment meets performance and operational requirements.
• Analyze system performance data and implement corrective actions to improve reliability and reduce downtime.
• Develop project cost estimates and assist with capital planning initiatives.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, including electrical drawings, control system documentation, operating procedures, reports, and project records.
• Maintain accurate historical documentation for engineering projects and equipment modifications.
• Conduct project status reviews and communicate progress with key stakeholders.
• Identify and implement cost reduction and continuous improvement opportunities throughout manufacturing operations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, equipment vendors, and suppliers to develop and implement technical solutions.
• Ensure all equipment and control systems comply with applicable safety standards, electrical codes, and industry regulations.
• Support preventative maintenance efforts by updating, maintaining, and modernizing legacy control systems.
• Promote and maintain a safe work environment while following all environmental, health, and safety requirements.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of engineering experience within a manufacturing environment, with significant experience supporting controls, automation, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Technical Skills

• Strong experience designing, programming, troubleshooting, and supporting PLC-based automation systems.
• Hands-on experience with Siemens and Allen-Bradley PLC platforms.
• Experience working with HMIs, motors, variable frequency drives (VFDs), sensors, and industrial automation equipment.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics and technical drawings.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD or similar CAD software.
• Strong Microsoft Office skills.

Additional Qualifications

• Excellent analytical and troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose complex manufacturing and automation issues.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across engineering, operations, maintenance, vendors, and suppliers.
• High attention to detail and commitment to delivering reliable, safe, and efficient manufacturing solutions.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining quality and meeting deadlines.