Automation Controls Engineer

Targan•Raleigh, NC

About The Position

The R&D Automation and Controls Engineer plays a hands-on role in realizing automated equipment at TARGAN, Inc. The engineer conceives, programs, debugs, and troubleshoots equipment with the goal of deploying machinery in customer facilities. The role works with cross-functional teams of engineers and scientists to achieve product outcomes, while also requiring independent work and onsite customer support. Work takes place in a flex-space building with offices, open desk space, a laboratory, machine shop, and manufacturing floor. Office conditions are generally quiet and temperature controlled. Noise is elevated in the warehouse, where temperatures can vary with outside conditions. Travel may be required, including up to 2–8 trips per year to suppliers, conferences, meetings, and customer sites such as hatcheries.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or computer science.
Minimum of 2–3 years of experience working with PLC/PAC technologies in an industrial environment.

Nice To Haves

Create touchscreen HMI interfaces from scratch using vendor packages, possibly including SCADA.
Integrate PLC/PAC and SCADA systems with databases.
Create schematics using AutoCAD Electrical, Solidworks Electrical, or similar software.
Background in electrical design.
Knowledge of other programming languages such as Python or C#.
Experience with computer vision.

Responsibilities

Program modern PLC/PAC devices using IEC 61131-3 compliant languages.
Integrate I/O systems using industrial automation fieldbus protocols such as EtherCAT, Ethernet/IP, and IO-Link.
Integrate machine vision and other equipment using industrial automation protocols.
Integrate machine safety systems using industrial automation protocols.
Use variable frequency drives (VFDs) and interact with them using industrial automation protocols.
Incorporate flow, pressure, and other sensors into machine programs.
Work within PLC/PAC system templates using state machines (ISA-TR88.00.02).
Apply sound code practices, including documenting function blocks and programs.
Test code methodically and incrementally to minimize debugging in the final product.
Read electrical system schematic diagrams and work safely around electromechanical machinery.
Troubleshoot equipment using electrical multimeters and other testing devices.
Work as part of cross-functional teams with engineers and scientists to achieve product outcomes.
Participate actively in cross-functional teams and provide and receive constructive feedback.
Work independently under direction to achieve desired outcomes.
Work onsite in customer environments independently and as part of a team.