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Trenton Pressing
Controls Engineer
Career Insights for Manufacturing Automation Engineer
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Based on Georgia data
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What they do
A Manufacturing Automation Engineer designs, programs and improves automated machinery and processes within a manufacturing environment. Are responsible for the design specifications, documentation and troubleshooting of the equipment. Often work within vehicle manufacturing and food processing plants, where robots or machines are used to perform specific functions.
$88,718 / year median in Georgia
+18% projected growth
Job Description
Position Summary The Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, programming, implementation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of manufacturing automation systems. This role focuses on PLC programming, HMI development, industrial networking, robotics integration, and electrical control systems to maximize equipment uptime, improve manufacturing efficiency, and support new product launches. The Controls Engineer partners closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, and Operations to ensure automated equipment operates safely, reliably, and efficiently while supporting continuous improvement initiatives. Essential Job Responsibilities PLC Programming & Automation Design, develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs for automated manufacturing equipment. Program and maintain PLCs including Allen-Bradley (Rockwell), Siemens, Automation Direct, Beckhoff, or similar platforms. Develop, modify, and troubleshoot HMI applications. Configure and maintain industrial communication networks including Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, and other industrial protocols. Support servo drives, VFDs, motion control systems, and machine vision systems. Develop standardized programming practices and documentation. Manufacturing Support Provide technical support to production and maintenance teams to minimize downtime. Respond to equipment failures and troubleshoot electrical and automation issues. Identify root causes of recurring equipment problems and implement permanent corrective actions. Support preventive and predictive maintenance initiatives. Improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) through automation enhancements. Equipment & Process Improvement Lead automation upgrades on existing manufacturing equipment. Support installation and commissioning of new production equipment. Develop automation solutions that improve safety, quality, productivity, and cycle time. Recommend process improvements utilizing Lean Manufacturing principles. Evaluate new automation technologies for implementation. Project Management Manage automation projects from concept through production launch. Coordinate with equipment suppliers, contractors, and system integrators. Develop project schedules and monitor budgets. Ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget. Electrical Controls Read, interpret, and modify electrical schematics. Design control panels and specify electrical components when needed. Troubleshoot electrical systems including sensors, relays, contactors, power supplies, and safety circuits. Support compliance with NFPA 70E, NEC, OSHA, and applicable safety standards (ISO 13849, ANSI/RIA R15.06). Documentation Maintain PLC backups and version control. Create and update electrical drawings and control documentation. Develop standard operating procedures and technical work instructions. Maintain equipment documentation and programming records. Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with Maintenance, Quality, Operations, and Engineering teams. Train maintenance personnel on automation systems. Provide technical guidance during equipment installation and startup. Support APQP, PPAP, and launch activities when applicable. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience). 5+ years of Controls Engineering experience in a manufacturing environment. Strong PLC programming experience (Allen-Bradley/Rockwell preferred). Experience with HMI development (FactoryTalk View ME, PanelView, WinCC, or similar). Knowledge of industrial automation and control systems. Ability to troubleshoot complex electrical and automation systems. Experience reading electrical schematics and wiring diagrams. Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Automotive manufacturing experience. Experience with Fanuc robotic systems. Experience with machine vision systems (Cognex, Keyence). SQL database integration. MES (Mach 2) integration experience. AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN experience. Core Competencies Strong troubleshooting ability Critical thinking Project management Continuous improvement mindset Attention to detail Ability to work independently Team collaboration Time management Adaptability in a fast-paced manufacturing environment Safety-focused decision making Physical Requirements Ability to walk throughout a manufacturing facility. Ability to climb ladders and work on elevated platforms. Ability to lift up to 40 pounds occasionally. Ability to work around moving machinery. Ability to work evenings or weekends during equipment installations or emergency repairs as needed. Work Environment This position operates in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with exposure to industrial machinery, electrical systems, noise, heat, and moving equipment. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required in designated production areas.