Controls Engineer

AAE NORTH AMERICA LLC • Morrisville, NC

53d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Controls Engineer specializing in industrial automation equipment, you will be responsible for designing, programming, and optimizing control systems to ensure efficient and reliable operation of automated machinery. Key tasks will include developing and implementing PLC and HMI programming, integrating sensors and actuators, programming industrial robots for collaborative and noncollaborative applications, interfacing with vision systems, troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure seamless system performance. This role requires strong analytical skills, expertise in control systems, and knowledge of industrial automation technologies.

AAE North America is a family-owned technology company headquartered in the Netherlands, known globally for innovation, precision, and a people-first culture. Based in Morrisville, NC, just minutes from Research Triangle Park, we design and build advanced automation solutions for medical, semiconductor, and other high-tech industries.

We don’t build standard machines. We develop sophisticated modules, systems, and complete automation solutions capable of producing up to 350 million products per year. Our projects are complex, custom, and constantly evolving, which means you’ll always be challenged and learning.

As we continue to grow, we’re looking for driven engineers who want to grow with us, expand their skills, influence projects, and build a long-term career in a collaborative, family-like environment. At AAE, you’re not just an employee, you’re a valued part of something meaningful.

Requirements

• BS/MS degree in engineering or related discipline (BSEE degree preferred)
• 4+ years of experience in the automation industry
• 3+ years PLC Development experience (Allen-Bradley preferred, Omron)
• Configuring and designing HMI systems (Allen Bradley, PC-based)
• Configuring and programming Motion Controllers/Actuators
• Programming robots and autonomous mobile robots (Fanuc, UR, MIR)
• Experience and skill in troubleshooting control system issues
• Experience writing User Manuals and other documentation to meet client needs for IQ/OQ/PQ
• Experience with training operators and Engineers on new and existing equipment

Nice To Haves

• Programming Vision/Laser Systems (Cognex, Keyence, LMI)
• Programming/integrating National Instruments SW/HW

Responsibilities

• Develop electrical design, schematics, and drawings in AutoCAD Electrical
• Interpret mechanical design drawings for electrical requirements (e.g., SolidWorks)
• Research supplier products for electrical and controls assembly components
• Power up electrical systems and configure hardware per application specifications
• Check the quality of assemblers and technicians’ work and assist during assembly
• Work with Sales Engineers to provide input with quote preparation as required
• Understand client requirements for HMI/communication interface, networking and create specifications based on these requirements
• Review, modify, and redesign legacy code (in-house and in the field)
• Troubleshoot issues with existing company installed systems
• Design and develop controls systems based on specifications or new concepts
• Program PLC’s and HMI’s completely from scratch ensuring that they work seamlessly with other components like actuators, servos, sensors, pneumatics etc.
• Conduct risk assessments for safety systems and robotics
• Requirement Reviews – Participate in reviews and work with Mechanical Engineering to ensure proper implementation of features
• Program and integrate industrial robots for collaborative and noncollaborative applications with PLC’s and HMIs for material handling, assembly, packaging and palletizing applications
• Prepare customer documentation including electrical schematics, electrical spares BOM, Complete User Manual etc. to meet client requirements
• Train operators and engineers to use new and existing company installed equipment

Benefits

• Competitive Pay – Market-aligned compensation to recognize your skills and contributions.
• Health Coverage – Company-sponsored medical, vision, and dental.
• Short-Term Disability - Company-paid gap coverage
• Life Insurance – Company-provided life insurance for additional financial protection.
• 401(k) Plan – With employer contributions to help you build long-term financial security.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) – Flexible paid time off to recharge and take care of personal needs.
• Holiday Pay – Paid company holidays throughout the year.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level