Automation and Control Systems Engineer

JOB SUMMARY

Join our team as an Automation and Control Systems Engineer, where you will play a crucial role in enhancing our manufacturing operations at TruStile. You will maintain, program, and optimize our control systems and automation infrastructure, which includes PLC/HMI programming, troubleshooting machine controls, and leading new automation initiatives. Your expertise will be vital in improving safety, minimizing downtime, and modernizing processes throughout the plant.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Program, troubleshoot, and maintain industrial automation systems using PLC platforms including Beckhoff and Allen-Bradley.
• Configure and support HMI systems for production equipment interfaces.
• Troubleshoot and modify systems involving VFDs, sensors, encoders, relays, motor starters, and electrical panels (up to 480V 3-phase).
• Enhance safety systems, ensuring compliance with OSHA and NFPA 70E standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams in Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, and IT to develop effective automation and controls solutions.
• Act as a subject matter expert and technical escalation point for controls issues and electrical downtime.
• Maintain a centralized repository of backup programs for PLCs and HMIs, thoroughly documenting all changes.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives by implementing automation solutions that boost uptime, quality, or efficiency.
• Provide technical support for installing and commissioning new equipment and automation upgrades across various locations, including Denver, CO and Northwood, IA.
• Develop and maintain training materials for electrical and controls development, and assist in onboarding and mentoring junior technicians.
• Adhere to all plant safety policies and contribute to safety improvement efforts related to controls and automation.

SKILLS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE

Required

• 3+ years of hands-on experience in automation, controls, or electrical systems within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong working knowledge of PLC logic and troubleshooting (Beckhoff preferred; Allen-Bradley a plus).
• Experience reading and modifying electrical schematics, ladder logic, and panel layouts.
• Familiarity with automation hardware configuration or troubleshooting, including light curtains, area scanners, encoders, and HMIs.
• Electrical troubleshooting experience up to 480V systems (AC and DC).
• Comfortable working from elevated platforms and scissor lifts; certification required or obtainable.
• Knowledgeable in NFPA 70E and OSHA standards for electrical safety.
• Strong analytical, communication, and documentation skills.
• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Automation, or a related field.

Preferred

• Experience with WoodWOP or similar machining interface software.
• Exposure to TwinCAT or structured text programming.
• Familiarity with isolated networks and best practices for controls system data integrity.
• OSHA 10/30 certification.
• Experience in training others or supporting technical development programs.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

• We encourage all candidates to apply, ensuring that our workplace remains diverse and inclusive.
• This job posting does not encompass all activities, duties, or responsibilities of the employee.

ADDITIONAL NOTES

As part of our commitment to automation and plant-wide reliability, this role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact. We invite candidates with a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset and a desire to thrive within a high-performing team to apply.

Salary: $81,000 - $101,000