Automation Controls Engineer
About The Position
Silgan Plastics is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join its Manufacturing Engineering and Automation team. The role covers the specification, design, programming, installation, training, and start-up of industrial control systems supporting blow molding and auxiliary equipment. It focuses on implementing automation that reduces end-of-line labor, improves line efficiency and productivity, enhances safety, reduces operational risk, and supports cost-reduction initiatives across manufacturing operations. The engineer works cross-functionally with engineering, operations, maintenance, and safety teams to deliver scalable, reliable automation solutions. The position requires travel within the continental United States and Canada. The ideal candidate must be able to obtain a passport for potential travel to a Canadian location. A high school diploma is required; a bachelor's degree in engineering is preferred.
Requirements
- High school diploma.
- 3–5 years of experience programming PLCs using Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation software.
- Experience setting up and programming HMIs.
- Ability to read, create, and maintain electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and P&IDs.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Microsoft Project, and 2D CAD software such as AutoCAD Electrical or AutoCAD Mechanical.
- Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
- Effective communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Willingness to travel and support multiple manufacturing locations.
- Ability to obtain a passport for potential travel to the Canadian location.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, or related Engineering.
- Working knowledge of Siemens, Mitsubishi, or Omron PLC/HMI platforms.
- Experience with industrial robots such as Yaskawa, Fanuc, Universal Robots, or KUKA.
Responsibilities
- Design, program, and commission industrial control systems for manufacturing equipment.
- Develop PLC and HMI programs primarily using Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation platforms.
- Support system start-ups, debugging, and validation at manufacturing sites.
- Provide operator and maintenance training on new and modified systems.
- Design control panels, including electrical schematics, bills of materials, and wiring diagrams.
- Read, create, and maintain single-line diagrams and P&ID drawings.
- Ensure designs meet applicable safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
- Identify and implement productivity improvements and workflow optimizations.
- Support automation projects to reduce pack labor, improve line efficiency, and enhance product tracking from blow molder to pallet.
- Partner with operations on continuous improvement initiatives.
- Provide engineering, PPE, or training solutions in response to near-misses or accident reports.
- Support safety-focused automation and guarding improvements in high-exposure areas.
- Ensure controls solutions align with Silgan safety standards.
- Support the design, improvement, and fabrication of internally developed or purchased blow molding and auxiliary equipment.
- Collaborate with vendors and internal teams during equipment installation and upgrades.
- Travel within the continental United States and Canada to support manufacturing locations.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
