Automation Controls Engineer

Job SummaryWe are seeking an Automation Engineer with experience in industrial automation, PLC controls, and material handling systems to support day-to-day manufacturing operations and lead automation projects and expansion initiatives. This role is highly hands-on and operational, supporting a fully automated manufacturing environment that includes AS/RS systems, AGVs, automated cranes, conveyors, PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks.The Automation Engineer will focus on system uptime, troubleshooting, continuous improvement, and project execution within a heavy industrial manufacturing facility.Key ResponsibilitiesIndustrial Automation & PLC ControlsProvide daily automation engineering and controls support for industrial manufacturing operations.Troubleshoot and maintain PLC-controlled systems supporting AGVs, cranes, conveyors, and automated material handling equipment.Perform PLC troubleshooting and logic modifications using Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLCs.Support and maintain HMIs, VFDs, servo systems, and motion control components.Diagnose and resolve industrial network and communication issues including EtherNet/IP and Profinet.Maintain PLC backups, control system documentation, firmware versions, and change management records.Electrical & Mechanical TroubleshootingTroubleshoot industrial electrical systems up to 480V in compliance with safety standards.Support electrical maintenance, controls troubleshooting, and automation diagnostics.Assist with mechanical troubleshooting of cranes, conveyors, motors, gearboxes, drives, AGVs, and AS/RS equipment.Diagnose mechanical issues related to bearings, chains, pneumatics, hydraulics, and automated storage systems.Support preventive maintenance (PM) programs and documentation using CMMS systems.Automation Projects & Expansion SupportLead and support automation projects, capital improvements, and manufacturing expansion projects.Coordinate with operations, maintenance, engineering, and external vendors on automation and controls projects.Support commissioning, startup, and integration of new automated equipment and control systems.Manage assigned automation engineering projects from concept through implementation.Reliability & Continuous ImprovementAnalyze automation system performance, downtime, and reliability data.Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) and implement long-term corrective actions.Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives related to automation, controls, and manufacturing efficiency.SafetyActively support and uphold industrial safety standards, including LOTO, machine guarding, and safe work practices.Maintain high standards of housekeeping and safe operation in a heavy industrial manufacturing environment.Minimum QualificationsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Controls Engineering, or Mechatronics.Equivalent experience and technical certifications will be considered.2-4 years of experience in industrial automation, PLC programming, controls engineering, or manufacturing maintenance.Strong knowledge of industrial PLC systems, automation controls, sensors, and motion control.Experience reading electrical schematics, control diagrams, ladder logic, and mechanical drawings.Hands-on experience troubleshooting 480V industrial electrical systems.Experience working in heavy industrial manufacturing, material handling, or automated facilities.Ability to work at heights and lift up to 50 lbs.Preferred QualificationsExperience with AS/RS systems, automated cranes, bridge cranes, gantry cranes, or high-bay storage systems.Hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and industrial networks.Exposure to industrial robotics, AGVs, conveyors, and automated material handling systems.Knowledge of functional safety systems, safety PLCs, LOTO, and machine guarding.Experience using CMMS software for maintenance tracking and PM scheduling.Additional certifications in industrial automation, electrical systems, robotics, or controls engineering.Indeed Keyword Coverage (Intentional)Automation Engineer, Industrial Automation, PLC, Allen Bradley, Siemens, Controls Engineer, Manufacturing Automation, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Controls, AS/RS, AGV, Conveyors, Cranes, HMI, VFD, Motion Control, EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Heavy Industrial Manufacturing, Automation Projects, Commissioning, Continuous Improvement