Controls & Automation Engineer

PPG•Oak Creek, WI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Controls & Automation Engineer designs control system architectures, programs and troubleshoots PLCs, integrates automation technologies, and supports reliable manufacturing equipment and processes. The role improves plant performance through automation enhancements, system modernization, and project leadership, collaborating with production teams, vendors, and contractors to advance safety and efficiency. The position is based on-site at PPG’s Oak Creek facility and reports directly to the Senior Manager of Mechanical Engineering. It provides technical leadership and mentorship to engineers and technical team members while managing controls and automation projects from concept through implementation.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field.
At least 5 years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, PLC programming, troubleshooting, and manufacturing operations.
Expertise with Rockwell Automation platforms, including Studio 5000, ControlLogix, CompactLogix, and EtherNet/IP.
Strong knowledge of PLC hardware and software, industrial networking, communication protocols, and control system integration.
Proficiency with GE iFIX, Rockwell Stratix Switches, FactoryTalk View Studio, ThinManager, Access/SQL, VBA, PowerFlex VFDs, and AutoCAD.
Working knowledge of FactoryTalk Optix, PlantPAx, Remote I/O, DH+, and Modbus.
Strong understanding of electrical principles, industrial control systems, automation technologies, NEC requirements, and NFPA electrical safety standards.
Experience designing, implementing, troubleshooting, and supporting manufacturing automation systems, including control system architecture and integration.
Ability to lead automation projects, coordinate resources, manage schedules and budgets, and collaborate across engineering, maintenance, and operations teams.

Responsibilities

Design, program, integrate, and maintain control systems for manufacturing and process automation applications.
Develop and troubleshoot PLC, HMI, VFD, sensor, actuator, and industrial network systems to support safe, reliable, and efficient operations.
Lead commissioning, startup, validation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives to minimize downtime and improve productivity, reliability, and safety.
Maintain control system documentation, including electrical schematics, panel layouts, bills of materials, and Management of Change (MOC) documentation.
Lead modernization and technology upgrade initiatives for legacy automation systems.
Manage controls and automation projects from concept through implementation, coordinating resources, contractors, vendors, production teams, and engineering personnel.
Ensure automation systems meet applicable electrical, safety, and industry standards.
Provide technical leadership, guidance, and mentorship to engineers and technical team members.