Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer

Great Bay Staffing Group•Piedmont, SC

1d•$85,000 - $105,000

About The Position

This Controls Engineer role puts you at the center of a stable manufacturing operation's automation strategy, with direct responsibility for the performance, reliability, and evolution of robotics and automated systems on the floor. You'll own both the hands-on technical work and the project leadership side — from programming and troubleshooting PLCs and vision systems to commissioning new equipment and driving continuous improvement. With strong growth opportunities available, this is a role where strong engineers move up.

Requirements

Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience programming and integrating Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMIs, and Vision Systems
Proficiency reading AutoCAD drawings and electrical/mechanical schematics
Solid understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, sensors, actuators, and automation control principles
Strong project management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities
Demonstrated ability to mentor and influence others across departments
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Automation Engineering preferred
Candidates without a degree but with a minimum of 10 years of directly relevant experience will be considered

Responsibilities

Program, optimize, and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMIs, and Vision Systems (Keyence, Cognex) to maximize uptime and product quality
Provide hands-on technical support for all automation equipment, including industrial robots
Lead and support capital projects — from vendor evaluation and specification development through full implementation
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to plan, install, and commission new automation systems
Develop and maintain preventive maintenance standards for automation equipment
Manage engineering changes and process improvements that reduce downtime and boost productivity
Evaluate and recommend emerging technologies to enhance manufacturing efficiency
Deliver training to operations and maintenance personnel on automation systems, safety integration, and maintenance best practices
Prepare project status reports and communicate milestones, risks, and performance metrics to leadership
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to identify and implement cost-saving process innovations
Occasional weekend support may be required