Controls Project Engineer

Makino • Mason, OH

4h • Onsite

About The Position

As part of the Project Engineering group, the Controls Project Engineer is responsible for designing, programming, integrating, and supporting automated manufacturing systems that combine Makino machine tools with industrial automation technologies. This role plays a key part in delivering turnkey automation solutions utilizing robots, PLCs, vision systems, conveyors, marking systems, and other manufacturing technologies. The Controls Project Engineer partners closely with customers, suppliers, project managers, and fellow engineering disciplines to successfully execute automation projects from concept through installation and customer acceptance.

Requirements

• Experience programming PLC platforms such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, Beckhoff, or similar systems.
• Experience programming industrial robots such as FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa, or similar platforms.
• Understanding of industrial communication protocols including Ethernet/IP, Profinet, ProfiBus, DeviceNet, OPC-UA, and Modbus.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, panel drawings, and controls documentation.
• Knowledge of machine safety systems, risk assessment principles, and applicable safety standards.
• Experience troubleshooting automated manufacturing systems in a production environment.
• Familiarity with vision systems, servo motion control, and industrial networking concepts.
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within cross-functional teams.
• Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to delivering high-quality solutions.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Ability to travel up to 25%, including occasional overnight and international travel, as required to support project installations, commissioning, and customer activities.

Nice To Haves

• 3+ years of controls engineering, automation engineering, or industrial automation experience preferred.
• Experience supporting machine tool, robotics, manufacturing, or automated production systems is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement controls systems for automated machining and material handling applications.
• Create and modify PLC, HMI, robot, and safety controller programs using industry-standard software platforms.
• Develop machine-to-machine communication interfaces and integration strategies between Makino equipment and third-party automation systems.
• Create detailed controls documentation including I/O lists, functional specifications, programming documentation, and commissioning procedures.
• Support electrical engineering activities including controls architecture, component selection, network design, and troubleshooting.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to ensure successful system performance and project execution.
• Participate in system design reviews and risk assessments to ensure compliance with applicable safety standards.
• Troubleshoot controls-related issues during system testing, installation, startup, and customer acceptance activities.
• Work with external suppliers and integrators to verify equipment functionality and system compatibility.
• Support factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT) activities.
• Provide technical support to Automation Support Engineers and Field Service Engineers during system installation and startup.
• Interface directly with customers to discuss project progress, technical issues, and system performance.
• Travel to customer sites as required for commissioning, troubleshooting, training, and project support.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements, standardization, and continuous improvement within the controls engineering function.

Benefits

• Makino is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

What This Job Offers

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