Manufacturing Controls Engineer

Job Title: Manufacturing Controls Engineer Location: Fremont, CA or Reno, NV (Onsite; travel between sites as needed) Duration: 4-6 Months (Contract-to-Hire) Job Overview The Manufacturing Automation Development Engineering team is seeking a highly motivated Manufacturing Controls Engineer to support the design, development, and commissioning of advanced automation equipment and production lines. This role is heavily focused on hands-on commissioning and PLC programming, requiring candidates who can quickly bring equipment online, debug issues, and support production readiness in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Key Responsibilities * Participate in the design and development of automated manufacturing equipment and assembly lines * Lead and support equipment commissioning, startup, and debugging (high priority) * Develop, program, and troubleshoot PLC systems (Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell/Allen Bradley Studio 5000) * Program and integrate automation components including HMIs, servo drives, sensors, and safety systems * Collaborate with cross-functional teams including mechanical design, production, quality, and maintenance * Develop and maintain electrical schematics, control panels, and system architecture * Implement and ensure compliance with safety standards (OSHA, ANSI/RIA, NFPA, UL) * Support integration of robotics and vision systems (Fanuc, ABB, Kuka, Keyence, Cognex) * Assist in transitioning equipment from concept and prototype into full production * Train production and maintenance teams post-deployment Required Qualifications * Strong experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting * Siemens (TIA Portal) and/or Rockwell (Allen Bradley / Studio 5000) * Proven hands-on experience with equipment commissioning and startup * Background in manufacturing, industrial automation, or production environments * Solid understanding of electrical or mechanical systems * Ability to debug and resolve issues in real-time on the production floor * Strong communication and collaboration skills Preferred Qualifications * Experience with robot programming (Fanuc, ABB, Kuka) * Knowledge of vision systems (Keyence, Cognex) * Experience with servo systems and motion control * Familiarity with scripting languages such as Python or SQL * Knowledge of industrial safety and electrical standards (OSHA, NFPA, UL, ANSI/RIA) * Degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or related Engineering field