Controls Engineer

Newell Brands•Winchester, VA

About The Position

Newell Brands is a leading consumer products company with a portfolio of iconic brands like Graco®, Coleman®, Oster®, Rubbermaid®, Sharpie® and Yankee Candle® - and 24,000 talented teammates around the world. Our culture is built on values in action: Integrity, Teamwork, Passion for Winning, Ownership, and Leadership. We work together to win, grow, and make a real impact—supported by a high-performing, inclusive, and collaborative environment where you can be your best, every day. Primary Purpose of Position: Implement the Newell Automation Strategy by designing, building, and deploying controls systems for manufacturing automation. Serve as the subject matter expert for controls and safety, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure equipment meets corporate standards for safety, quality, and productivity. Spend about 50% of time on the plant floor driving improvements.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or equiv. from accredited institution.
3-10 years' experience in a related field.
Experience with designing system architecture and hands-on experience implementing control-based automation projects.
Excellent proficiency with PLC programming techniques (Allen Bradley & Siemens, ControlLogix/GuardLogix)
Technical proficiency in software applications (Logix, Studio, ViewStudio)
Experience in designing, drawing, and analyzing electrical schematics using AutoCAD/ePlan, specifically Industrial Control Panels, HMIs, and network systems
Strong technical proficiency in general business software (Microsoft Office, Teams, etc.)
Self-starter with strong cause-effect analytical abilities to solve problems.
Excellent communication skills, able to explain automation concepts to teams with a wide range of technical backgrounds.
Create, gather, and document requirements for automated solutions, including identifying HW and SW dependencies.
Experience with design and implementation of safety systems on robotic applications.
Background and knowledge in automated manufacturing areas such as robotics (FANUC).
Ability to wire and troubleshoot electrical systems, build electrical panels, and manage team members building panels, hands-on experience in Control Cabinet Design and Electrical CAD drawings.
Experience with Industrial Infrastructure Controls Systems (480VAC Power, Water, Hydraulic, etc.).
Experience with OT-Network System Development, Ignition MES, machine upgrades for Industry 4.0/5.0 integration.
Relevant project experience conducting Safety Risk Assessments, PFMEA, FAT/SAT.
Project Management background with ability to independently drive projects from initial concept through detailed design and execution and coordinate cross-functional teams to meet system requirements.
Experience with programming languages such as C, C++, Java, Python, and Matlab.
Experience with Six Sigma and Lean Principles (DMAIC, SPX, Cpk, GR&R, Control Plans, EOE, Value Steam Mapping, 5S, Visual Factory, TPM, Kaizen, HIR, Demand Flow, Single Piece Flow, SMED, and other Continuous Improvement Process tools).
Working knowledge of safety standards (IAO, IEX, ANSI, RIA, etc.).
Safety certified (CMSE, CEFS, FS Eng, FS Tech, etc.).
Background and knowledge in manufacturing automation applications such as robotics, autonomous movement (AGVs & AMRs), ASRS systems, machine tending, print & apply, palletization, case erecting, case packaging, etc.
Core competency in robotics (industrial and collaborative), condition monitoring, EOAT design/support, safety systems (devices and controls), vision systems, and simulation.
Ability to read, write, and speak in English.
Adaptability: Ambitious and motivated to deliver results independently; comfortable working in a fast-paced, team environment with competing priorities.
Critical Thinker, who seeks out areas of opportunity, pushes for new ideas, and finds solutions to problems.
Effective interpersonal & communication skills (written, verbal and in person)
Servant Leadership, can coach, mentor, and develop teams to achieve both professional and business goals.
Possesses high degree of confidentiality and professional integrity. Leading with our values at the forefront; Truth, Transparency, Teamwork & Trust.
Excellent MS Office software skills including PowerPoint, Excel, Teams, and Word. PowerBI experience a plus. Experience navigating cloud-based programs such as SharePoint a plus.
Strong Organizational skills with ability to manage day-to-day operation of distribution personnel to ensure accurate and on time order fulfillment.

Responsibilities

Lead and implement automation projects from concept through systems design and execution, using innovative manufacturing concepts focused on process improvement.
Examine and assess the business case and tradeoffs of using new innovative manufacturing concepts.
Lead integration efforts for automation projects as the expert in PLC programming, HMIs, and electrical systems.
Conceptualize, communicate, and design detailed controls system architectures, including Control Cabinet Design and Electrical CAD drawings, leveraging experience to navigate design impacts to performance targets, safety, cost, etc. Create detailed electrical drawings, Bill of Materials, and coordinate with manufacturers to ensure functionality; generate accurate and through troubleshooting documentation based on project need.
Troubleshoot new and existing controls devices in the manufacturing environment, advising improvements to hardware, software, and process issues; implement solutions in a collaborative team environment.
Train technical associates on current and new automation equipment and/or software applications.
Assure plants are meeting quality and safety standards.
Assist in planning preventative and predictive maintenance for a wide range of manufacturing processes.
Solicit quotations, quotations, qualify suppliers, manage project budgets, issue and receive Purchase Orders, and select equipment vendors based on project needs.
Proactively drive project alignment and communicate directly with stakeholders to gather and document requirements, coordinate delivery and project schedules across multiple teams.
Share “industry best practices” and successes with peers.
Perform other duties assigned by leadership to support the overall needs of the team and company.