Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer

About the position

Piedmont, SC | $85,000 – $105,000 The Opportunity This Controls Engineer role puts you at the center of a stable manufacturing operation's automation strategy, with direct responsibility for the performance, reliability, and evolution of robotics and automated systems on the floor. You'll own both the hands-on technical work and the project leadership side — from programming and troubleshooting PLCs and vision systems to commissioning new equipment and driving continuous improvement. With strong growth opportunities available, this is a role where strong engineers move up. Your Day-to-Day Program, optimize, and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMIs, and Vision Systems (Keyence, Cognex) to maximize uptime and product quality Provide hands-on technical support for all automation equipment, including industrial robots Lead and support capital projects — from vendor evaluation and specification development through full implementation Collaborate with cross-functional teams to plan, install, and commission new automation systems Develop and maintain preventive maintenance standards for automation equipment Manage engineering changes and process improvements that reduce downtime and boost productivity Evaluate and recommend emerging technologies to enhance manufacturing efficiency Deliver training to operations and maintenance personnel on automation systems, safety integration, and maintenance best practices Prepare project status reports and communicate milestones, risks, and performance metrics to leadership Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to identify and implement cost-saving process innovations Occasional weekend support may be required What We're Looking For Experience & Skills Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience programming and integrating Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMIs, and Vision Systems Proficiency reading AutoCAD drawings and electrical/mechanical schematics Solid understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, sensors, actuators, and automation control principles Strong project management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities Demonstrated ability to mentor and influence others across departments Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills Education Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Automation Engineering preferred Candidates without a degree but with a minimum of 10 years of directly relevant experience will be considered Ready to Apply? If you're a controls or automation engineer who thrives on solving complex problems on the plant floor and is looking for a role with real growth potential in a stable industry, we want to hear from you. Apply today to take the next step in your engineering career.

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