Controls/Manufacturing Engineer

ITW•Saint Louis, MO

8h•Onsite

About The Position

Alpine, an ITW company, currently has an opening for a Manufacturing Engineer in its Litchfield, IL (greater St. Louis) facility. The Manufacturing Engineer will provide technical leadership, direction and engineering support for the safe manufacturing of products which meet or exceed quality requirements and business goals and objectives. This role will identify opportunities and initiate actions to improve processes and production methods that safely improve our manufacturing cost, quality, productivity, product performance, and delivery to best meet customer needs. Alpine is a leading provider of building component software, equipment, and the industry’s best service to truss manufacturers. Partnering with our customers, we help to improve their businesses and make them more productive. We are also a leader in delivering software solutions to homebuilders to increase productivity and profitability. ITW offers its employees a path for advancement, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to help employees care for themselves, their families, and their futures. The Controls Engineer / Technician will support operations through the design, maintenance, and continuous improvement of automated control systems. This role will balance hands-on troubleshooting with project-based engineering work, with a strong emphasis on robotics, automation, and process improvement.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related technical field preferred (or equivalent experience)
2-5+ years of experience in industrial automation or controls engineering within a manufacturing environment
Strong experience with Allen Bradley PLC platforms (SLC 5/05, ControlLogix, CompactLogix, MicroLogix)
Experience with robotic programming and automation systems (Fanuc preferred)
Experience with AC drives, motor control systems, and industrial automation hardware
Proficiency in HMI development (PanelView, Ignition or similar)
Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP, Remote I/O)
Experience with Microsoft Office and computer-aided design software (AutoCAD or similar a plus)
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical systems in a manufacturing environment
Strong understanding of lean manufacturing, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement methodologies
Strong project management, communication, and problem-solving skills
Ability to travel 15-20%
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
Willingness to work flexible hours as needed to support operations

Nice To Haves

Hands-on experience with PLC programming and robotic programming in a high-speed manufacturing environment
Experience with robotics, Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR), and smart sensor technologies
Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude with a proactive, problem-solving mindset
Demonstrated ability to lead and execute continuous improvement initiatives
Effective communicator who can work cross-functionally with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams
Ability to balance floor support with project-based engineering work

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and improve automated control systems including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, AMRs, smart sensors, and drive systems
Develop new PLC and robotic programs and continuously improve existing systems using company standards
Program, troubleshoot, and optimize robotic systems (Fanuc preferred) and related automation platforms
Support integration of automation systems including PLCs, robotics, HMI, and data collection systems
Configure and maintain AC drive systems including such as Allen Bradley PowerFlex (400, 750, 755)
Work with industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Remote I/O, and Modbus TCP/IP
Design and modify electrical circuits, control panels, and system architectures
Provide electrical and mechanical troubleshooting support for production equipment and automated systems
Lead root cause analysis efforts and implement corrective actions to improve equipment reliability and uptime
Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives using lean manufacturing principles
Support and lead capital projects related to automation, controls upgrades, and equipment modernization
Ensure maximum reliability and performance of manufacturing equipment
Support equipment rebuilds, repairs, and system upgrades
Create and maintain documentation including electrical schematics, programs, and operating procedures
Collaborate with Maintenance, Engineering, Operations, and IT teams to resolve issues and improve system performance
Provide technical support and training to maintenance and production personnel
Partner with Engineering/Maintenance on machine design improvements and new equipment implementation
Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and company standards in all activities