AME Equipment Engineer - Controls

Harbinger Motors Inc. • Garden Grove, CA

79d • $140,000 - $160,000

About The Position

We are seeking an AME Equipment Engineer - Controls to lead the design, development, programming, and commissioning of robust control systems for our cutting-edge Advanced Manufacturing Equipment. This role is central to Harbinger's Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (AME) team and involves collaboration with cross-functional teams to optimize production processes and integrate advanced automation technologies as we rapidly scale to high-volume production.

Requirements

• 5-8+ years of hands-on experience as a Controls or Automation Engineer, with a significant focus on high-volume manufacturing automation in the automotive EV or related high-speed sector.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.
• Advanced proficiency in programming, troubleshooting, and configuring industrial PLCs (e.g., Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, Siemens, Beckhoff) and HMI/SCADA platforms.
• Direct experience with programming and integrating industrial robotics (FANUC, KUKA, ABB) and implementing machine vision systems (Cognex, Keyence) for quality inspection, guidance, and error-proofing.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, ProfiNet, EtherCAT) and the integration of control systems with higher-level plant MES systems.
• Deep knowledge of controls-reliable safety systems design and implementation, including safety PLCs and risk assessment procedures.
• Proficiency in electrical CAD software (AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN). Strong analytical, structured problem-solving (e.g., 8D, 5 Why), and project management skills.

Nice To Haves

• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally to support equipment FATs (Factory Acceptance Tests) and commissioning.
• Preferably, experience in a fast-paced startup environment.
• Preferably, experience with precision BIW joining processes or battery/powertrain controls.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy the entire control system architecture, including PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for all AME equipment and integrated manufacturing processes.
• Program and integrate complex automation technologies across the facility, specifically focusing on systems like robotic welding/joining, high-speed conveyance, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), large mechanical presses, precision dispensing, and advanced machine vision applications.
• Design robust electrical control systems, develop detailed wiring diagrams and schematics (EPLAN or AutoCAD Electrical), and ensure all systems adhere to critical industrial safety standards (ANSI/RIA 15.06, ISO 13849).
• Define and implement robust methods for data acquisition and transfer between equipment control systems and the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) for tracking OEE, quality metrics, process variables, and production history.
• Lead the controls-related aspects of equipment projects from concept through final site acceptance testing (SAT), commissioning, and production ramp-up, managing vendors and project timelines effectively.
• Provide hands-on, expert-level technical support for the manufacturing and maintenance teams to quickly diagnose and resolve complex electrical, software, and networking issues to maximize equipment OEE.
• Define and maintain a structured methodology for PLC code standards, version control, backups, and comprehensive electrical/software documentation across the entire manufacturing footprint.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health, Dental & Vision (HDV) – 100% employee covered
• Early-stage Stock Options
• Robust Retirement Savings (401k, HSA, FSA)
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) & Parental Leave
• Annual Vacation Bonus
• Wellness & Fertility Benefits
• Cell Phone Stipend
• Complimentary Meals & Stocked Kitchens

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees