Controls Engineer

Lightera • Carrollton, GA

2d

About The Position

Lightera, a global leader in fiber optic cable manufacturing, is seeking a
Controls Engineer to design, develop, and optimize automation systems for
precision fiber optic cable manufacturing. This role focuses on integrating
cutting-edge technologies into existing equipment while exploring innovative
control and automation solutions to enhance reliability, safety, and throughput.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in controls/automation engineering roles in a manufacturing environment
• Strong communication, organizational, and documentation skills
• A passion for troubleshooting, innovation, and hands-on problem-solving

Nice To Haves

• Experience with fiber optic cable manufacturing or related precision/continuous process industries preferred
• Project Management certification (e.g., PMP) or equivalent project leadership experience desired
• Demonstrated success working independently and collaboratively in fast-paced, technical environments

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and maintain PLC/HMI systems, with a strong focus on Siemens PLCs/Drives (TIA Portal, Step 7, SINAMICS, VFDs)
• Support and troubleshoot Rockwell Automation platforms (Logix 5000, SLC 500, PLC-5) where applicable
• Develop, test, and optimize automation solutions to improve manufacturing performance, repeatability, and safety
• Lead or contribute to cross-functional projects from concept through deployment, ensuring cost-effective, scalable, and maintainable controls integration
• Collaboration with Safety Engineering to develop machine guarding solutions, including safety PLCs and safety relay-based systems
• Interface with remote hardware (motors, sensors, actuators, I/O modules, etc.)
• Generate and maintain clear documentation, including wiring diagrams, system architecture, PLC logic, procedures, and troubleshooting guides
• Collaborate with internal teams across manufacturing, R&D, and other Lightera sites to scale and replicate control strategies
• Support the design of custom machinery and automated test setups using 3D CAD tools like SolidWorks and AutoCAD

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and performance-based incentives
• Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, tuition reimbursement, matching 401(k))
• A collaborative, safety-first work culture
• Opportunities for career advancement and technical development

What This Job Offers

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