Senior Controls Engineer

Kubota•Gainesville, GA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

At Kubota, the Senior Controls Engineer leads the development and implementation of advanced automated systems supporting manufacturing and maintenance operations. The role provides technical leadership in the design, integration, and optimization of mechatronic and control systems across production lines, with a focus on operator safety, reliability, and scalability. It is a hands-on position involving system design and implementation on the factory floor, collaboration across functions, and the integration of emerging technologies. The engineer also manages large-scale automation projects, establishes controls standards, supports continuous improvement and preventive maintenance, and mentors engineers and maintenance technicians. The position is based in Gainesville, Georgia.

Requirements

At least 7 years of experience in controls engineering, automation, or a related discipline.
Demonstrated experience leading complex automation projects and mentoring junior engineers.
Bachelor’s degree in automation engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, mechatronics, or a related field; equivalent job-related experience, military service, professional certifications, and demonstrated skills may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Ability to read, write, understand, and communicate effectively in English.
Problem-solving, communication, quality-of-work, project-management, cross-functional collaboration, and strategic-thinking capabilities.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience with Allen Bradley products.
Advanced diagnostic and analytical skills.
Strong leadership and project management capabilities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and engineering software tools.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Self-driven approach to problem-solving and innovation.

Responsibilities

Architect, develop, and optimize PLC programs, primarily using Allen Bradley and Mitsubishi systems, for complex production systems.
Drive manufacturing controls solutions focused on operator safety, system reliability, and scalability.
Develop and enforce company-wide controls standards and best practices.
Collaborate with IT and MES teams to integrate automation systems with enterprise platforms.
Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards, including NEC, NFPA, and IEC.
Oversee technical documentation, including schematics, risk assessments, and operational procedures.
Manage large-scale automation projects, including scope definition, budgeting, scheduling, procurement, and installation.
Evaluate and onboard technologies and vendors to advance automation capabilities.
Establish and maintain relationships with automation and controls equipment suppliers.
Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership about system performance and improvement opportunities.
Lead root cause analysis and continuous improvement for recurring automation and controls issues.
Lead the development and implementation of preventive maintenance programs for controls and automation equipment.
Support operations outside regular hours as needed for critical system issues or project deadlines.
Mentor Controls Engineers and maintenance technicians in troubleshooting advanced controls issues.
Train and provide technical guidance to manufacturing and maintenance teams on new systems and processes.
Foster a collaborative team environment and support other engineering functions as needed.
Keep current with industry trends and emerging technologies through professional development and networking.