Automation & Controls Engineer

TPI Composites Inc•Newton, IA

About The Position

TPI Composites is seeking an experienced, results-driven Automation Engineer to lead automation initiatives and engineering projects that improve safety, quality, efficiency, and overall manufacturing performance. The role designs, implements, and optimizes automated manufacturing systems while providing technical leadership across engineering and operations teams. The successful candidate brings a strong background in industrial automation, controls, and manufacturing processes, along with experience managing projects and driving continuous improvement in a fast-paced production environment. The position requires a significant presence on the manufacturing floor and may involve off-shift work, weekends, plant shutdowns, and additional hours when operational or project needs require them.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field, and at least 5 years of experience in automation engineering, manufacturing engineering, controls engineering, industrial automation, or a related technical role; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Proven experience leading engineering or automation projects from concept through implementation.
Strong working knowledge of industrial control systems, including PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, sensors, and automated manufacturing equipment.
Experience in a manufacturing or industrial production environment.
Strong troubleshooting, project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and collaboration abilities, with the ability to work effectively across all levels of the organization.
Ability to read, analyze, interpret, and apply technical drawings, engineering specifications, electrical schematics, technical manuals, regulations, and work instructions.
Strong troubleshooting, diagnostic, and root cause analysis skills involving electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and automated manufacturing systems.
Ability to communicate technical information and recommendations effectively to leadership, customers, vendors, and cross-functional teams.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, engineering software applications, and data analysis tools.
Strong organizational, analytical, and project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities, solve complex problems, and support continuous improvement.
Working knowledge of engineering mathematics, statistical analysis, geometry, and trigonometry as applied to manufacturing, automation, and process improvement.
Capable of standing, walking, bending, climbing stairs, and moving throughout the facility for extended periods.
Able to occasionally lift, carry, push, and pull up to 40 pounds.
Comfortable working safely around industrial machinery, moving equipment, elevated platforms, and active production environments.
Available to support off-shift work, weekends, plant shutdowns, and other critical operational activities when required.
Willing to work additional hours as necessary to meet project timelines and operational objectives.

Nice To Haves

Experience with robotic automation systems, automated manufacturing equipment, and capital project execution, including equipment installations, commissioning, and process optimization initiatives.
Proficiency in SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar CAD software, including developing, reviewing, and modifying engineering drawings and technical documentation.
Experience with pneumatic and hydraulic systems in manufacturing or industrial environments.
Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, and Six Sigma methodologies, with a demonstrated ability to identify and implement operational improvements.

Responsibilities

Lead engineering and automation projects from concept through implementation, ensuring safe, timely, and budget-conscious completion.
Define project scope, objectives, milestones, staffing requirements, and timelines.
Develop and maintain project schedules and budgets, and manage resources and expenditures.
Monitor project progress and provide status updates to leadership, project teams, and customers.
Coordinate staffing and project support with internal departments and external resources.
Prepare and oversee project deliverables, design documentation, technical specifications, and bid packages.
Assign and direct project team members through design, testing, implementation, and startup.
Design, develop, implement, and optimize automation solutions to improve manufacturing processes and operational efficiency.
Support industrial control systems, including PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, sensors, and related automation technologies.
Design and support tooling, fixtures, and equipment using mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
Troubleshoot equipment, controls, and process issues and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
Support equipment startup, commissioning, testing, validation, and ongoing operational performance.
Drive process improvements to increase productivity, reduce downtime, and improve product quality.
Review engineering designs, drawings, specifications, and documentation for compliance with engineering principles, company standards, and customer requirements.
Coordinate technical activities related to product development, scheduling, testing, and manufacturing support.
Evaluate and approve engineering changes, drawing revisions, and technical specifications.
Maintain accurate engineering records, reports, and project documentation.
Prepare interim and final project reports for management and stakeholders.
Partner with customers, vendors, and cross-functional teams to meet project requirements and expectations.
Serve as a technical resource for manufacturing, maintenance, quality, and operations teams.