CONTROLS PROJECT ENGINEERAs part of the Project Engineering group, the Controls Project Engineer is responsible for designing, programming, integrating, and supporting automated manufacturing systems that combine Makino machine tools with industrial automation technologies. This role plays a key part in delivering turnkey automation solutions utilizing robots, PLCs, vision systems, conveyors, marking systems, and other manufacturing technologies.
The Controls Project Engineer partners closely with customers, suppliers, project managers, and fellow engineering disciplines to successfully execute automation projects from concept through installation and customer acceptance.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities- Design, develop, and implement controls systems for automated machining and material handling applications.
- Create and modify PLC, HMI, robot, and safety controller programs using industry-standard software platforms.
- Develop machine-to-machine communication interfaces and integration strategies between Makino equipment and third-party automation systems.
- Create detailed controls documentation including I/O lists, functional specifications, programming documentation, and commissioning procedures.
- Support electrical engineering activities including controls architecture, component selection, network design, and troubleshooting.
- Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to ensure successful system performance and project execution.
- Participate in system design reviews and risk assessments to ensure compliance with applicable safety standards.
- Troubleshoot controls-related issues during system testing, installation, startup, and customer acceptance activities.
- Work with external suppliers and integrators to verify equipment functionality and system compatibility.
- Support factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT) activities.
- Provide technical support to Automation Support Engineers and Field Service Engineers during system installation and startup.
- Interface directly with customers to discuss project progress, technical issues, and system performance.
- Travel to customer sites as required for commissioning, troubleshooting, training, and project support.
- Identify opportunities for process improvements, standardization, and continuous improvement within the controls engineering function.
QualificationsTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Technical Skills- Experience programming PLC platforms such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, Beckhoff, or similar systems.
- Experience programming industrial robots such as FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa, or similar platforms.
- Understanding of industrial communication protocols including Ethernet/IP, Profinet, ProfiBus, DeviceNet, OPC-UA, and Modbus.
- Ability to interpret electrical schematics, panel drawings, and controls documentation.
- Knowledge of machine safety systems, risk assessment principles, and applicable safety standards.
- Experience troubleshooting automated manufacturing systems in a production environment.
- Familiarity with vision systems, servo motion control, and industrial networking concepts.
- Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Soft Skills- Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within cross-functional teams.
- Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to delivering high-quality solutions.
Education and Experience- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field.
- 3+ years of controls engineering, automation engineering, or industrial automation experience preferred.
- Experience supporting machine tool, robotics, manufacturing, or automated production systems is highly desirable.
Travel- Ability to travel up to 25%, including occasional overnight and international travel, as required to support project installations, commissioning, and customer activities.
