Controls and Automation Engineer

RESPONSIBILITIES:

•  Develop, modify, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC control systems used throughout the manufacturing facility.

•  Program and support PLCs, HMIs, industrial computers, robotics, motion controls, and other automated equipment.

•  Troubleshoot electrical and controls-related problems to minimize equipment downtime and improve overall equipment effectiveness.

•  Support the design, installation, programming, commissioning, and startup of new and modified automated production equipment.

•  Develop and implement controls improvements to increase equipment reliability, productivity, quality, safety, and process capability.

•  Provide technical support and training to electricians, maintenance personnel, and production team members on PLC, controls, automation, and electrical systems.

•  Work closely with Maintenance and Engineering personnel to identify recurring equipment problems and develop permanent corrective actions.

•  Support integration of robots, vision systems, sensors, drives, servo systems, safety circuits, and other automation technologies.

•  Troubleshoot and modify electrical control circuitry, including AC/DC controls, motor controls, VFDs, sensors, relays, safety devices, and industrial communication systems.

•  Develop, modify, and maintain PLC and HMI programs, control logic, and associated documentation.

•  Support industrial communication networks and connectivity between PLCs, HMIs, robots, drives, and other production equipment.

•  Lead or support capital projects involving automation, controls, electrical systems, and production equipment.

•  Assist with equipment specifications, vendor selection, installation, commissioning, and acceptance of new automation and controls equipment.

•  Maintain and update electrical schematics, PLC programs, HMI documentation, controls documentation, and other engineering records.

•  Identify opportunities to automate manual processes and implement technology that improves manufacturing efficiency and consistency.

•  Support plant scrap reduction, quality improvement, continuous improvement, and cost-reduction initiatives through automation and controls solutions.

•  Work with production and maintenance teams to identify opportunities for data collection, process monitoring, and automated equipment diagnostics.

•  Ensure controls and automation systems comply with applicable electrical, machine safety, and company standards.

•  Follow all applicable safety requirements, including Lockout/Tagout, when working with electrical and automated equipment.

•  Maintain a strong working knowledge of electrical and electronic theory, including AC/DC circuits, PLC logic, motor controls, solid-state devices, sensors, and industrial automation.

•  Maintain a safe working environment and promote safe work practices throughout the facility.

• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

EDUCATION:

•  Associate's or Technical degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Controls, Industrial Technology, or a related field required.

•  Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

CORE COMPETENCIES

WORKING CONDITIONS / JOB EXPECTATIONS:

•  Minimum of 2 years of experience in industrial controls, automation, electrical engineering, manufacturing engineering, industrial maintenance, or a related field.

•  PLC programming and troubleshooting experience required.

•  Manufacturing or industrial automation experience preferred.

•  Experience with robotics, HMI systems, VFDs, motion control, or industrial networking preferred.

•  Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose complex electrical and controls problems.

•  Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, control drawings, equipment manuals, and technical documentation.

•  Ability to communicate effectively with electricians, maintenance personnel, operators, engineers, supervisors, and outside suppliers.

•  Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while supporting day-to-day manufacturing needs.

•  Strong commitment to safety, quality, continuous improvement, and equipment reliability.

•  Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of a cross-functional team.

•  Position requires regular presence in the manufacturing environment and interaction with production and maintenance personnel.

•  May require work around operating machinery, electrical equipment, robotics, automated systems, and industrial processes.

•  Occasional off-shift, weekend, or overtime support may be required for equipment startups, troubleshooting, or critical projects.

•  Must follow all applicable company safety policies, electrical safety requirements, and Lockout/Tagout procedures.

•  May require occasional travel to equipment suppliers, training locations, or other Tenneco facilities.