Automation Controls Engineer

TARGAN Inc.; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

TARGAN, Inc. in Raleigh, NC is seeking an R&D Automation and Controls Engineer who will design, program, debug, and troubleshoot automated equipment for customer facilities.

This hands-on role offers a path to senior ownership of projects while working with cross-functional teams. You’ll use IEC61131-3 languages for PLC/PACs, integrate I/O and networks like EtherCAT and Ethernet/IP, develop HMI, ensure safety, and create robust documentation.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years PLC/PAC experience in an industrial setting.
• In lieu of a degree, 5+ years of relevant experience.
• Strong foundation in electrical design and schematics.
• Familiarity with HMI/SCADA interfaces and databases is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Programming PLC/PAC devices using IEC61131-3 languages.
• Integrating I/O systems and fieldbus protocols (EtherCAT, Ethernet/IP, IO-Link).
• Developing machine vision integration and safety features.
• Creating and documenting function blocks and programs.
• Working with cross-functional teams to deliver outcomes.

Skills

PLC/PAC programming

HMI development

Machine safety

Schematic reading

Cross-functional teamwork

Education

High School Diploma/GED

Associate’s Degree

Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering/CS/CE

Master’s Degree

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

Solidworks Electrical

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Technical Raleigh, NC, US

7 days ago Requisition ID: 1075

Position Summary

The R&D Automation and Controls Engineer plays a key role in the realization of automated equipment at TARGAN, Inc. This position is hands‑on; requiring the Engineer to conceive, program, debug, and troubleshoot equipment with the goal of putting machinery into customer facilities. This position can facilitate a range of experience. However, it is expected that the Engineer candidate will eventually move into a senior role with the ability to take ownership of and lead projects.

Essential Functions

• Programming of modern PLC/PAC devices using IEC61131-3 compliant languages.
• Integration of I/O systems using industrial automation fieldbus protocols such as EtherCAT, Ethernet/IP, IO-Link and others.
• Integration of machine vision and other pieces of equipment using the above protocols.
• Integration of machine safety using the above protocols.
• Use of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and interaction with them using the above protocols.
• Incorporate sensors for flow, pressure, etc. into the machine program using the above protocols.
• Ability to work within the framework ‘template’ of a PLC/PAC system using state-machines (ISA-TR88.00.02).
• Basic understanding of linear single‑axis motion control.
• Good code techniques to include documentation of function blocks, programs, etc.
• Methodical and incremental testing of code to minimize excessive debugging in the final product.
• Understand schematic diagrams of electrical systems.
• Understand electrical safety and working around electro‑mechanical machinery.
• Troubleshoot equipment using electrical multimeters and other testing devices.
• Work as part of a cross‑functional team including Engineers and Scientists to create the desired product outcomes.
• Participate as an active member of cross‑functional teams; provide and receive constructive feedback.
• Ability to be given direction and work independently for periods of time to achieve desired outcomes.
• Ability to work onsite in customer environments independently and as part of a team.

Qualifications

A. Education

Level Area of Study

High School Diploma/GED

Associate’s Degree

Bachelor’s Degree In Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, etc. is preferred

Master’s Degree

Other (must specify):

B. Experience and Certifications

Minimum of 2-3 years of experience working with PLC/PAC technologies in an industrial environment. More experience can translate into a higher engineering pay grade. In lieu of a degree: a minimum of 5 years of experience for consideration.

C. Knowledge, Skills, and Attributes

• Creating touchscreen HMI interfaces using vendor packages, possibly SCADA, from scratch – is a plus.
• Integrating PLC/PAC & SCADA with databases – is a plus.
• Ability to create schematics using AutoCAD Electrical, Solidworks Electrical, or similar software – is a plus.
• A background in electrical design - is a plus.
• Knowledge of other programming languages such as Python, C#, etc. – is a plus.
• Experience with computer vision – is a plus.

Physical Requirements

This position requires (check all that apply):

Normal periods of sitting and standing in an office environment.

Extended periods of sitting at a workstation/desk in an office environment.

Extended period of standing.

Lifting and/or pushing objects up to 25 lbs. on a regular basis

Lifting and/or pushing objects up to 50 lbs. on an occasional basis.

Working with heavy `machinery or equipment on X regular occasional basis.

Working outdoors in potentially inclement weather conditions.