Universal Forest Products Inc

Controls Engineer - Deckorators (Buffalo, NY)

Universal Forest Products Inc$85K — $120K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial Controls, or Mechatronics Engineering
  • 10+ years of experience in industrial automation, SCADA, and PLC-based controls
  • Proficient in Ignition 8.1 development and deployment (preferred)
  • Experience with PLC systems such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and Rockwell platforms
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills in a manufacturing environment

Responsibilities

  • Design, program, and implement SCADA, PLC, and HMI systems for automated manufacturing
  • Troubleshoot and resolve operational technology issues involving SCADA and IIoT
  • Conduct preventive maintenance and optimization of control systems
  • Lead commissioning and testing of automation systems during startup
  • Partner with teams across engineering, IT, production, and quality for improvements
  • Plan and execute system upgrades and pilots for new technologies
  • Train maintenance and operations teams on system functionality and safe practices

Benefits

  • Medical insurance
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Health savings account with company contribution
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Stock purchase program with employee discount
  • Educational reimbursement
  • Wellness programs and challenges
Full Job Description
Job Summary

The Controls Engineer will lead automation and control system development at the Buffalo facility, driving plant performance through SCADA, PLC/HMI programming, system integration, and continuous improvement. This role supports the startup and growth of the flagship operation by ensuring high-reliability automation, process visibility, and advanced control capabilities. The ideal candidate has strong industrial controls experience, a passion for hands-on problem-solving, and the ability to collaborate across engineering, IT, production, and operations.

Key Responsibilities
• Design, program, and implement SCADA, PLC, and HMI systems to support automated manufacturing
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational technology issues involving SCADA, IIoT, MES, controls, and networks
• Conduct preventive maintenance, software updates, and optimization of control systems
• Lead commissioning and testing of automation systems during plant startup and expansion
• Partner with engineering, IT, production, and quality to improve controls reliability and process efficiency
• Plan and execute system upgrades, pilots, and proofs-of-concept for new technologies
• Train maintenance and operations teams on system functionality and safe controls practices
• Support data acquisition, performance monitoring, and integration to improve OEE and decision-making

Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial Controls, or Mechatronics Engineering
• 10+ years of experience in industrial automation, SCADA, and PLC-based controls
• Proficient in Ignition 8.1 development and deployment (preferred)
• Experience with PLC systems such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and Rockwell platforms
• Understanding of MES, IIoT, industrial networking, and machine integration
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills in a manufacturing environment
• Excellent communication skills - able to simplify technical concepts for all users
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced startup environment with changing priorities

Additional Details
• Based full-time at the Buffalo flagship facility
• Travel up to 40%for installations, troubleshooting, and end-user support
• Opportunity to help shape automation standards and digital transformation across Deckorators

Compensation & Benefit Information

Salary Pay Range: $85,000-$120,000K annually dependent on experience*

*pay range may be adjusted depending on cost of living

Bonus/Incentive Pay:

Annual performance bonus opportunity based on Company and specific business unit ROI and PBOP achievement criteria and individual job responsibility and performance.

Benefits currently offered to our employees:
  • Medical insurance
  • Health savings account with company contribution
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Basic and voluntary life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Stock purchase program with employee discount
  • Educational reimbursement
  • Wellness programs and challenges
  • Other supplemental benefits


About Universal Forest Products Inc

Since 1955, there’s one thing that Universal Forest Products has consistently done: grow. We’ve grown our brand portfolio. We’ve grown our product lines. But, most importantly, we’ve grown our reputation—based on our commitment to grow brands by delivering the absolute best products and service possible. Not only because it’s what you expect, but also because it’s what we demand. Headquartered in Grand Rapids, Mich., with facilities throughout North America, Universal Forest Products is strategically positioned to deliver a wide variety of products to nationwide retailers that cater to both consumers and contractors. Universal Forest Products is a holding company that provides capital, management and administrative resources to subsidiaries that design, manufacture and market wood and wood-alternative products for the retail, construction and industrial markets. To explore all our products, like our outdoor living products or our framing services for the site-built market or our forming products for concrete construction.

Universal Forest Products Inc Careers

Join the dynamic team at Universal Forest Products Inc, a leader in the wood product manufacturing industry, and propel your career to new heights. As part of our commitment to innovation and leadership, we are continuously seeking skilled professionals eager to drive growth and embrace challenges in a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Why Work with Us?

At Universal Forest Products Inc, you are not just taking a job; you are embarking on a fulfilling career. We offer a range of job opportunities that allow you to utilize your skills, from entry-level positions to leadership roles. Our team is our greatest asset, and we invest in their growth through comprehensive training programs and professional development opportunities.

Explore Our Job Opportunities

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, Universal Forest Products Inc offers a variety of career paths in areas such as operations, sales, marketing, and technology. Our internship programs provide a robust foundation for students and recent graduates, offering hands-on experience and networking opportunities that often lead to full-time employment.

Our Culture and Benefits

At Universal Forest Products Inc, we pride ourselves on a culture that fosters innovation, leadership, and teamwork. We understand that job satisfaction extends beyond the workplace, which is why we offer competitive benefits that enhance the lives of our employees and their families. From health and wellness programs to retirement plans, we ensure our team members are supported both personally and professionally.

Join Our Team

Ready to advance your career with Universal Forest Products Inc? Explore our current openings and find the position that matches your skills and interests. Our hiring process is designed to be transparent and engaging, ensuring that all candidates can showcase their strengths from the resume submission to the interview stage.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity is integral to our company ethos. Universal Forest Products Inc is committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We believe that diversity drives innovation and makes our team stronger.

Develop Your Career

Universal Forest Products Inc is dedicated to the continuous professional development of our employees. With access to cutting-edge training and leadership programs, you can expand your knowledge, enhance your skills, and take on new challenges within the company.

Stay Connected

Don’t miss out on the exciting career opportunities at Universal Forest Products Inc. Stay updated with the latest company news, job openings, and industry insights by joining our career network. Tailor your job alerts to match your career preferences and be the first to know about new positions that fit your profile.

Apply Now

Are you ready to make a significant impact in your career and help shape the future of the wood products industry? Apply today and join a team that values hard work, creativity, and a commitment to excellence. At Universal Forest Products Inc, your future is in your hands.

SEARCH UNIVERSAL FOREST PRODUCTS INC JOBS

READ CAREERS BLOG

SIGN UP FOR JOB ALERT EMAILS

Embark on your journey with Universal Forest Products Inc and transform your professional life in a company that values growth, leadership, and diversity.
Learn more about Universal Forest Products Inc
Size
15,000 employees
Market Cap
$4.9 billion
Industry
Net Income
$246.7 million
Founded
1955
5 Year Trend
+21.7%
Revenue
$5.1 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Universal Forest Products Inc

More Manufacturing & Automotive Jobs

Find similar Controls Engineer - Deckorators (Buffalo, NY) jobs: