Controls Engineer

Sika•Marion, OH

About The Position

The Controls Engineer implements and provides ongoing support for automated processes at Sika’s Marion Operations. The role focuses on maintaining controls and robotic solutions integrated with production equipment, which relies heavily on programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and other forms of automation. The position works under the general supervision of the Maintenance & Engineering Manager. The engineer designs, develops, programs, troubleshoots, and maintains control systems and automation equipment; supports manufacturing process and equipment improvements; and manages selected projects from planning through implementation. The position also provides technical expertise, documentation, and training while collaborating with teams across the organization.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Engineering; Electrical, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering is preferred.
3–5 years of experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, or distribution center environment.
Direct experience implementing, maintaining, and operating automation, PLCs, and packaging equipment.
Expert experience in automation, PLCs, and robotics.
Ability to read, write, speak, and comprehend English.
Good math skills, including working with fractions, decimals, and percentages.
Ability to develop process expertise to facilitate troubleshooting.
Ability to maintain an excellent attendance record.
Strong interpersonal skills and effective oral and written communication skills.
Proficiency in computer applications.
Knowledge of OSHA regulations and guidelines and ability to prepare and maintain required documentation.
Ability to work independently with strong organizational skills and minimal supervision.
Flexibility to work any shift and overtime as business requires.
Self-motivation and ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Responsibilities

Participate in the Sika SAFE Program and maintain a safe, clean work environment in accordance with company policy.
Manage vendors and contractors to ensure compliance with Sika health, safety, and behavior standards and monitor project progress against agreed timelines and budgets.
Design, develop, program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC-based control systems, HMI applications, robotics, industrial networks, instrumentation, and machine vision systems.
Develop, modify, and support PLC programs using Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent platforms.
Configure and troubleshoot VFDs, servo systems, safety PLCs, distributed I/O, and industrial communication networks.
Interpret and review electrical drawings, P&IDs, process flow diagrams, and equipment specifications.
Tune PID loops and optimize process control strategies for manufacturing equipment and processes.
Manage selected projects from start to finish, including Capital Appropriation Requests, budgets, savings, timelines, runoff criteria, status reporting, implementation, and related project details.
Implement changes to production processes, equipment, and facilities, and engineer new processes to increase capacity and reduce or eliminate bottlenecks.
Review machine and equipment layouts and recommend and implement changes to improve performance.
Identify and develop automation solutions, primarily for mixing and packaging systems, to improve safety, ergonomics, quality, productivity, and cost.
Capture lessons learned and best practices to streamline future projects.
Create procedures, documentation, routings, and other process documentation.
Collaborate and communicate across organizational levels and functions, including operators, R&D, QA, supply management, and executive management.
Serve as a technical expert in controls equipment and automation; mentor and train others in automation systems.
Assume additional responsibilities in support of the company’s automation strategy and perform other work and projects as required by the Maintenance & Engineering Manager.