Controls Engineer

The Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, maintaining, and optimizing control systems that support highly automated manufacturing operations within a High Pressure Die Casting (HPDC) facility.This role ensures the reliability, performance, and integration of PLC-based automation across robotic casting cells, CNC machining lines, AGV systems, vision inspection technologies, and passivation processes.The position plays a critical role in minimizing downtime, improving equipment efficiency, and enabling seamless communication between machines, control systems, and digital manufacturing platforms. The PLC Programmer will collaborate closely with maintenance, engineering, and production teams to troubleshoot complex automation issues, implement continuous improvements, and support the deployment of Industry 4.0 technologies.Must haveSiemens PLC (non-negotiable)ABB Robotics (strong preference per client email)Hands-on troubleshooting in a manufacturing environmentOwn and maintain all PLC programs across production machines to ensure stable, safe, and efficient operationApply and enforce PLC programming standards, with primary focus on Siemens PLCsModify, optimize, and troubleshoot PLC programs based on production, quality, or safety requirementsCoordinate all PLC changes with MES and SAP leads to ensure end-to-end system integrity, Provide training to Operator and Maintenance team membersSupport MES-to-PLC and PLC-to-SAP data interfaces, ensuring accurate and reliable data exchangeAnalyze PLC-level failures and lead root cause analysis for production-impacting issuesCollaborate with Maintenance and Production during commissioning, upgrades, and machine modificationsManage PLC-related activities with machine suppliers and system integratorsMaintain PLC documentation, backups, version control, and change historyEnsure PLC changes follow OT security, safety, and change management proceduresRequirementsBachelors degree in Engineering, Electrical, IT or similar fieldExperience with Siemens PLC Programming, Industrial Communication, Automation, Controls Systems and Troubleshooting3+ years relevant experience with Siemens PLC standards and implementation