Federal Ammunition is seeking an Electrical Controls Engineer to join the team. In this role you will be responsible for developing, implementing, and supporting technology to improve equipment, processes, and products. This is accomplished by design requirements, specifications, drawings, procure necessary materials and services, coordinate installation and training for systems including new automation solutions. Will provide expertise in programming and designing Industrial controls and interfaces for new equipment and processes.  Effectively communicate with team members at all levels of the organization to improve our workplace and customer experience.

This position reports to the Manufacturing Engineering Manager and will be based out of our Anoka, MN office.

What you’ll do:

• Lead and support the design, development, and deployment of automated manufacturing systems with emphasis on machine vision and inspection technologies.

• Design, program, and commission PLC-based control systems (Allen-Bradley, Omron) integrated with vision systems, robotics, servo motion, and lasers.

• Architect and implement camera-based inspection solutions including lighting, optics, image acquisition, and defect detection.

• Design, implement, maintain, and improve electrical instruments, equipment, facilities, and systems for the manufacturing plant.

• Direct and help coordinate construction, installation, maintenance, support, documentation, and testing activities to ensure compliance with specifications, and codes.

• Oversee electrical project efforts to ensure projects are completed satisfactorily, on time and within budget.

• Develop and maintain HMI/SCADA interfaces for real-time visualization and diagnostics.

• Oversee full project lifecycle: concept, design, programming, installation, testing, and commissioning.

• Ensure compliance with NEC, OSHA, and machine safety standards including FMEA and risk assessments.

• Troubleshoot and optimize high-speed inspection systems to improve performance and reduce false rejects.

• Collaborate with engineering, IT, and operations teams to develop proof-of-concept and scalable solutions.

• Integrate machine data with MES/SCADA/IT systems for traceability and analytics.

• Lead and mentor team members and develop technical documentation and standards.

Experience you bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Controls Engineering (or equivalent experience).

• 5+ years experience in automated manufacturing systems and PLC programming (Allen-Bradley preferred).

• Hands-on experience with machine vision platforms (Cognex, Keyence, Omron, AI).

• Experience with servo motion, robotics integration, and automation systems.

• Knowledge of lighting techniques and optical design for inspection systems.

• Familiarity with industrial networking protocols (EtherNet/IP, TCP/IP, OPC UA).

• Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical, HMI/SCADA development, and Microsoft Office.

• Experience with NEC, OSHA, and industrial safety standards.

• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills across electrical, mechanical, and vision systems.

• Ability to communicate technical concepts effectively.

You might have:

• Integration of vision data with MES, SQL databases, or cloud systems.

• Experience with AI/deep learning vision tools (Cognex ViDi, Keyence AI).

• Experience with FMEA, hazard analysis, and machine safety risk assessments.

• Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Asset Center, Git) and continuous improvement practices.

Work Environment:

Employee work assignments may include tasks working with and/or exposure to potentially hazardous areas, including flammables and explosives. Safety training is provided to all employees to ensure compliance with company and federal regulations.

Pay Range:

The actual annual salary offered to a candidate will be based on variables including experience, geographic location, education, and skills/achievements, and will be mutually agreed upon at the time of offer.

We offer a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits including: medical and dental, vision, disability and life insurance, 401K, PTO, tuition reimbursement, gear discounts and the ability to add value to an exciting mission!