Controls Engineer- Riverside, MO, USA

Location: Riverside MO

Job Summary

The Controls & Automation Engineer is responsible for developing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing automation and control systems that support the manufacturing and assembly of automotive seating and overhead systems. This role plays a key part in improving equipment reliability, productivity, quality, and operational efficiency through the implementation and support of advanced automation technologies.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting, industrial automation systems, process improvement initiatives, and manufacturing equipment integration within a fast-paced production environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Continuous Improvement & Quality

• Participate in PFMEA development and risk assessment activities.
• Support Kaizen events, Lean Manufacturing initiatives, and continuous improvement projects.
• Identify opportunities to improve equipment efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance product quality through automation solutions.
• Develop and implement error-proofing (Poka-Yoke) systems and automated quality controls.
• Participate in 8D problem-solving and root cause analysis activities.
• Investigate process abnormalities and implement corrective and preventive actions.
• Support data collection and analysis initiatives to drive operational improvements.

Engineering & Process Support

• Evaluate the impact of engineering changes on manufacturing processes and automation systems.
• Assist with equipment specifications, controls architecture reviews, and system design discussions.
• Review electrical schematics, controls drawings, and control system documentation.
• Support new equipment installations, equipment upgrades, and production line launches.
• Work closely with manufacturing, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams to improve process performance.
• Assist in equipment validation and commissioning activities.

Controls & Automation Responsibilities

• Program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment.
• Diagnose and resolve issues related to PLC hardware, software, communications, and networked devices.
• Develop, modify, and optimize PLC programs to improve machine performance and reliability.
• Troubleshoot ControlLogix processors, ladder logic, structured text, and data handling functions.
• Maintain PLC documentation, version control, and backup systems.
• Support Human Machine Interfaces (HMI), industrial networks, and connected automation devices.
• Configure and troubleshoot:HMIs Barcode scanners Remote I/O systems Sensors and vision systems Relays and contactors Solenoids and pneumatic controls Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) Servo systems and motion controls Industrial Ethernet networks
• Support automation projects involving machine integration, process automation, robotics, and material handling systems.
• Assist in commissioning and startup activities for new automated equipment.
• Collaborate with equipment suppliers and integrators during system implementation and troubleshooting.
• Apply electrical, instrumentation, and controls engineering principles to maintain and improve production systems.

Maintenance & Technical Support

• Provide technical support to maintenance personnel during equipment troubleshooting activities.
• Assist with troubleshooting pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, and automation-related equipment issues.
• Develop and maintain preventive maintenance procedures for automation and controls systems.
• Support emergency troubleshooting efforts to minimize production downtime.
• Train maintenance and production personnel on automation systems and equipment operation when required.
• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities required.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.
• Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology or related discipline considered with relevant experience.
• Minimum of 4-5 years of experience in Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related industrial environment.
• Experience supporting automated production equipment in automotive or high-volume manufacturing environments strongly preferred.
• Experience with equipment startups, process improvements, and automation projects.
• Demonstrated experience troubleshooting complex manufacturing systems and reducing equipment downtime.

Technical Skills & Experience

Required

Allen-Bradley PLC platforms

Studio 5000

• ControlLogix systems
• PLC programming, troubleshooting, and diagnostics
• Electrical troubleshooting and controls systems support
• Industrial automation equipment and manufacturing processes
• Reading and interpreting electrical schematics and controls drawings

Preferred

FactoryTalk View SE/ME

• Servo and motion control systems
• Vision inspection systems
• Robotics (Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa, or similar)
• VFDs and motor control systems
• Industrial networking (EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, Profinet)
• Automated assembly equipment
• Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing technologies
• SQL, manufacturing data collection, or SCADA systems

Key Competencies

• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills
• Root cause analysis and problem-solving expertise
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Effective communication and teamwork
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Project management and automation implementation experience
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality

PRIMARY LOCATION

Riverside MO