Controls Engineer

Position Summary:

The Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting manufacturing automation and control systems to improve safety, quality, efficiency, and productivity. This role partners with cross-functional teams to develop, optimize, and troubleshoot manufacturing processes while driving continuous improvement through Lean manufacturing principles. The Controls Engineer also develops and maintains technical documentation, including work instructions, standard operating procedures, and process documentation, to ensure consistent and reliable manufacturing performance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, implement, and support manufacturing automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, controls, material handling, and production equipment to improve safety, quality, productivity, and operational efficiency.

• Troubleshoot and optimize manufacturing processes to reduce downtime, increase equipment reliability, and drive continuous improvement through Lean manufacturing principles.

• Develop, maintain, and modify PLC and operator interface programs using Allen Bradley software or other approved programming platforms.

• Collaborate with Product Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, and suppliers to ensure manufacturability, support engineering changes, improve manufacturing processes, and resolve production issues.

• Manage engineering change activities, including preparing Engineering Change Notices (ECNs), updating drawings and documentation, and communicating changes to internal and external stakeholders.

• Recommend, justify, and implement capital equipment and process improvement projects that support operational and business objectives.

• Support prototype development, CAD modeling and drawings (2D/3D), equipment modifications, and occasional production activities as needed.

• Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, MIOSHA requirements, and applicable state and federal regulations.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Proficiency in 2D and 3D CAD software, PLC programming, robotics (Fanuc preferred), and vision systems.

• Intermediate to advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and Word.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and use precision measuring instruments, including tape measures and calipers.

• Working knowledge of common hand and power tools used in manufacturing and equipment support.

• Strong analytical, organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and complete projects independently.

• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a cross-functional team.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work effectively across all levels of the organization and with external suppliers.

• Ability to obtain forklift certification and safely operate material handling equipment as required.

• Valid Michigan driver's license.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Minimum two (2) years of manufacturing engineering or equivalent industrial experience required.

• Two (2) or more years of PLC programming and controls experience required.

Physical Demands:

• Regularly communicate and exchange accurate information with co-workers and team members.

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and remain stationary for extended periods while performing engineering, troubleshooting, and project-related activities.

• Frequently move throughout the facility and work around manufacturing equipment, tools, and fixturing.

• Regularly use hands and fingers to operate equipment, handle materials, and use tools requiring dexterity, grip strength, and attention to detail.

• Occasionally climb, bend, reach, or position oneself around equipment and work areas.

• Frequently lift, carry, or transport components, tools, and equipment weighing 10–60 pounds.

• Must have the ability to perform visual inspections, including close vision, distance vision, color recognition, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

• This position works in both office and manufacturing environments, with regular interaction on the production floor.

• The role may involve exposure to manufacturing conditions, including occasional loud noise and airborne dust.

• Must be able to safely work around manufacturing equipment while following all applicable safety policies and procedures.

Notice:

OMT-Veyhl USA Group of companies is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for qualified applicants in all employment decisions.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.