Automation Controls Engineer, Cathode Advanced Manufacturing

What to ExpectAutomation Controls Engineers are responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing control systems across materials processing and manufacturing operations, ensuring the smooth operation of systems around the clock. This role involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including design, operations, and maintenance, to implement improvements, resolve system issues, and ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations. The position requires expertise in manufacturing controls, particularly for equipment used in material conveyance, milling, mixing, pressing, dryers, kilns, and robotic systems.In addition to supporting day-to-day operations, Automation Controls Engineers are responsible for establishing and maintaining equipment control standards, programming hardware and robots, and actively assisting with the commissioning and review processes for new projects. Additional duties include conducting audits, managing installations, and performing safety assessments to ensure all systems meet operational and regulatory requirements.What You'll DoProgram and debug control logic using structured text, ladder logic, and function block diagrams on PLC systems (Siemens, Beckhoff, B&R)Develop code that adheres to established standards, ensuring it is organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusableDesign and implement robust programs and control sequences for complex, multi-station machinery involved in processes such as material conveyance, milling, mixing, pressing, drying, kiln operations, and roboticsCreate intuitive Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs) using platforms such as Siemens WinCC, Beckhoff TCHMI, and othersSet up, troubleshoot, and tune servo systems and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) for consistent and reliable operational performance (ABB, Siemens, Schneider, B&R, SEW)Design and implement reliable safety control systems to protect robots, gantries, conveyors, and other high-volume manufacturing equipment, ensuring compliance with relevant codes and standardsActively contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, including Root Cause Investigations (RCIs), by identifying and implementing corrective actions (e.g., optimizing control sequences, enhancing equipment interfaces)Manage suppliers during specification, design, buyoff and installation of automated manufacturing equipmentWhat You'll BringDegree in Electrical, Automation, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field or at least 5 years of experience in sustaining or designing control systems, or equivalent experienceProficiency with PLC systems with preference given to Siemens, Beckhoff, or B&R platformsExperience with Human Machine Interfaces (HMI/GUI) including WinCC, TCHMI, and IgnitionProficiency creating P&ID drawings and detailed electrical and mechanical schematics using CAD tools (EPLAN preferred)Structured Text (IEC 61131-3) programming skillsCompensation and BenefitsBenefitsAlong with competitive pay, as a full-time Tesla employee, you are eligible for the following benefits at day 1 of hire:Medical plans > plan options with $0 payroll deductionFamily-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefitsDental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans, both have options with a $0 paycheck contributionCompany Paid (Health Savings Accounts) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High-Deductible medical plan with HSAHealthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)401(k) with employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefitsCompany paid Basic Life, AD&DShort-term and long-term disability insurance (90 day waiting period)Employee Assistance ProgramSick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions, Accrued hours for Hourly positions), and Paid HolidaysBack-up childcare and parenting support resourcesVoluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insuranceWeight Loss and Tobacco Cessation ProgramsTesla Babies programCommuter benefitsEmployee discounts and perks programTesla is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any factor, including veteran status and disability status, protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.Tesla is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.For quick access to screen reading technology compatible with this site click here to download a free compatible screen reader (free step by step tutorial can be found here). Please contact ADA@tesla.com for ADA related questions or to request ADA accommodations.Privacy is a top priority for Tesla. We build it into our products and view it as an essential part of our business. To understand more about the data we collect and process as part of your application, please view our Tesla Talent Privacy Notice .Automation Controls Engineer, Cathode Advanced ManufacturingTesla participates in the E-Verify Program