Controls Engineer - BB Nash

BB Nash in Nashville, Tennessee facility, we produce protein bars for the US market, supporting continued nationwide growth through a strong focus on quality, efficiency, and operational excellence.Position SummaryThe Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, optimization, and support of automation and control systems across our manufacturing facility. This role will lead controls integration efforts for processing, packaging, utilities, and material handling systems while supporting operational reliability, system performance, and continuous improvement initiatives.The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise in PLCs, HMIs, industrial networks, and automation systems with hands-on troubleshooting ability in a high-speed manufacturing environment.This role is critical to ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation of a highly automated food manufacturing facility.About The RoleKey ResponsibilitiesAutomation & Controls EngineeringDesign, program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC, HMI, SCADA, and industrial control systemsSupport automation integration across processing, packaging, utilities, and conveying systemsDevelop and maintain control system architectures, network layouts, and electrical documentationConfigure and support VFDs, servo systems, instrumentation, and process controlsSupport integration of OEM equipment into plant-wide automation systemsStandardize controls platforms, programming structures, and documentation practicesManufacturing Support & TroubleshootingProvide technical support for production and maintenance teams during equipment downtime and troubleshootingDiagnose electrical, controls, communication, and automation failuresSupport root cause analysis and corrective actions for recurring equipment issuesOptimize equipment performance, uptime, and process reliabilityParticipate in startup, commissioning, and ramp-up activitiesCapital Projects & System IntegrationLead controls portions of capital projects from concept through commissioningCoordinate with OEMs, system integrators, contractors, and internal stakeholdersSupport FAT/SAT execution and system validation activitiesEnsure proper controls documentation, backups, and change management processesAssist with project budgeting, timelines, and implementation planningContinuous ImprovementIdentify opportunities for automation improvements, efficiency gains, and waste reductionSupport Lean manufacturing and operational excellence initiativesDevelop performance monitoring tools, data collection methods, and reporting systemsDrive standardization and scalability across manufacturing systemsCompliance & SafetyEnsure automation systems comply with food safety, GMP, and site safety standardsSupport machine safety assessments and implementation of safety controlsMaintain compliance with OSHA, electrical, and industrial automation standardsPromote safe work practices and proper lockout/tagout proceduresQualificationsBachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field3+ years of controls engineering experience in manufacturing environmentsExperience in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, or consumer packaged goods manufacturing preferredStrong hands-on experience with PLC programming and troubleshootingExperience with industrial automation platforms such as:Rockwell / Allen-BradleySiemensIgnitionWonderwareFactoryTalkKnowledge OfHMIs and SCADA systemsIndustrial networking (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, etc.)VFDs, servo systems, instrumentation, and sensorsElectrical schematics and panel designExperience supporting high-speed automated manufacturing equipmentStrong troubleshooting, communication, and project coordination skillsPreferred QualificationsExperience with highly automated processing and packaging systemsKnowledge of batch systems and process automationExperience with MES, OEE, and manufacturing data systemsFamiliarity with GMP, HACCP, and SQF environmentsExperience with robotics and vision systems (REMOVE)OSHA and machine safety knowledgeLean Manufacturing or Six Sigma experienceWelcome with your application at the latest MONTH DATE 2026. We will review applications on an ongoing basis and the position may be filled before the last application day.We appreciate LinkedIn, but to get a full picture of your experience, we ask you to also include a CV.BB Nash is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.