Position PurposeThe Paint Shop Controls Engineer is responsible for developing, maintaining, and optimizing automation systems that support paint shop operations. This role ensures reliable performance of PLC, SCADA, and industrial control systems while driving efficiency, data visibility, and continuous improvement across manufacturing processes.
Position TypeExempt
Major Tasks, Responsibilities & Key Accountabilities- Develop, program, and troubleshoot PLC systems (Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, Beckhoff)
- Create and maintain control logic using Ladder Logic, Function Block, and Structured Text
- Design and support SCADA systems using Ignition (dashboards, alarms, historian trends, reporting)
- Integrate PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, and third-party devices using EtherNet/IP, OPC UA, and MQTT
- Configure and maintain industrial networks, instrumentation, and drive systems
- Support plant commissioning, startup, and system upgrades
- Analyze production data, KPIs, and historian trends to improve efficiency and throughput
- Optimize control strategies, including PID loops and automation sequences
- Develop OEE, downtime, and predictive maintenance dashboards
- Implement fault diagnostics, alarm rationalization, and predictive alerts
- Standardize PLC code, naming conventions, and HMI design practices
- Support MES/ERP data integration and automation data visibility
- Monitor and improve energy usage and process sustainability
- Troubleshoot automation and network issues to minimize downtime
Minimum Qualifications - 3+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering or industrial automation
- Experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment
- Strong understanding of industrial control systems, instrumentation, and networking
- Experience in paint shop, surface finishing, or similar industrial processes preferred
- Familiarity with safety and environmental regulations in manufacturing
- Must pass required background check, drug screening, and pre-employment assessments
Preferred Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field
- Rockwell Automation ControlLogix/CompactLogix certification
- Ignition (Inductive Automation) certification
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies
- Experience with MES/ERP system integration
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Competencies- Proficient with PLC platforms (Rockwell, Beckhoff) and Studio 5000
- Strong SCADA development experience (Ignition platform)
- Experience with Ladder Logic, Function Block, and Structured Text programming
- Knowledge of EtherNet/IP, OPC UA, and industrial communication protocols
- Electrical controls design, panel troubleshooting, and diagnostics
- Data analysis and visualization skills for manufacturing performance metrics
- Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis capabilities
- Effective communication and ability to present technical solutions
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- Continuous improvement mindset with strong attention to detail
Job Conditions- Both office environment and occasionally manufacturing/factory environment
- Subject to noise and temperature changes
Physical RequirementsThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:
- Sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
- The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk.
- The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
Disclaimer: This job description is general in nature and is not designed to contain or to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job. 
