Who We Are :

IMS Gear is a global manufacturer headquartered in Donaueschingen, Germany, specializing in gear and transmission technology with operations across Europe, North America, and Asia. We are currently hiring at our Virginia Beach, VA location which produces Horizontal Drive Mechanisms, an auto part responsible for your car seats' movement. Our employees are offered a comprehensive benefits package, a supportive working environment, with excellent growth opportunities. We are seeking an Electrical Controls Engineer to develop, optimize, and implement manufacturing processes in an assigned production area, with a focus on electrical controls and automation. Through hands-on equipment troubleshooting, continuous improvement initiatives, and machine performance management, this role improves efficiency, maintains high-quality standards, and supports operational goals and overall business success. The ideal candidate combines a strong electrical engineering background with hands-on experience in PLC programming, robotics, and industrial automation. This role requires a willingness to actively support maintenance activities, including troubleshooting, repairing, and installing production and automation equipment as needed.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design, program, install, maintain, and troubleshoot electrical control systems, PLCs, and robotic automation equipment.
• Performs hands-on installation, repair, startup, commissioning and optimization of production and automation machinery.
• Perform hands-on troubleshooting of electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
• Read and interpret electrical and pneumatic schematics.
• Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair sensors, vision/camera inspection systems, and other automated production equipment.
• Provide direct hands-on technical support for maintenance activities and production operations.
• Follow and reinforce all applicable safety rules, policies, and procedures.
• Provide on call support during critical operations, equipment failures, or project commissioning phases Additional Knowledge a Plus
• Siemens PLC/HMI programming (TIA Portal, Step 7)
• Motoman and Epson SCARA robotics experience
• Keyence vision and inspection systems knowledge

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Associate or bachelor's degree in engineering, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
• 5+ years of experience in industrial automation and control systems within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in automated manufacturing systems.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

Split between office and manufacturing plant environment with exposure to areas (noise, machinery, and moving parts) which require the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, hearing protection and slip resistant safety toe shoes. IMS Gear is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We embrace individuals from all backgrounds and provide employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, or veteran status. If you are ready to contribute to our success and grow with IMS Gear, apply now to join our team!

Job Type:

Full-time Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Application Question(s): The position requires hands-on equipment troubleshooting, repairing, and installing production and automation equipment. Do you have hands-on experience?

Education:

Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

PLC programming: 3 years (Preferred)

Electrical Engineering:

5 years (Preferred)

Robotics:

3 years (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person