Automation and Controls Engineer

Ajulia Executive Search; Port Washington (WI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Ajulia Executive Search seeks a Project Engineer to deliver technical solutions for new and existing production applications, with an emphasis on automation, controls, and system integration on the manufacturing floor.

The role focuses on leading automation initiatives, diagnosing PLC/HMI issues, and supporting installation, startup, and commissioning of equipment. Strong problem-solving and collaboration with operations and maintenance are essential to improve uptime.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics or a related technical discipline.
• 3+ years hands-on experience in electrical engineering within manufacturing, automation, or production.
• Strong PLC programming, HMI development, machine controls, automation systems, sensors, drives, and networks.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot on the production floor and drive reliability improvements.
• Experience leading projects and coordinating with cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation, controls, and equipment improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing performance.
• Diagnose and resolve PLC, HMI, and system integration issues to minimize downtime.
• Support installation, startup, validation, and commissioning of new equipment and lines.
• Conduct root cause analysis on equipment failures and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, and external vendors to optimize processes.
• Drive continuous improvement by identifying automation opportunities and increasing efficiency.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Machine controls

Automation systems

Sensors & drives

Industrial networks

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

None specified

Job description

The Project Engineer's primary purpose is to provide technical solutions for new and existing production applications while expanding the organization's expertise in automation, controls, and system integration

Responsibilities

• Lead automation, controls, and equipment improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing performance and operational efficiency
• Diagnose and resolve PLC, HMI, machine control, and system integration issues to minimize production downtime
• Support the installation, startup, validation, and commissioning of new manufacturing equipment and production lines
• Conduct root cause analysis on equipment failures and implement corrective actions to improve reliability and uptime
• Collaborate closely with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, and external vendors to optimize manufacturing processes
• Drive continuous improvement efforts by identifying automation opportunities, improving system performance, and increasing production efficiency

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related technical discipline
• At least 3 years of hands‑on experience in electrical engineering within a manufacturing, industrial, automation, or production environment
• Strong expertise in PLC programming, HMI development, machine controls, automation systems, sensors, drives, and industrial communication networks
• Proven ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve controls, automation, and equipment performance issues while working directly on the production floor
• Experience leading engineering projects, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and integrating automated systems into manufacturing operations to improve efficiency and reliability