Automation Controls Engineer

Targan INC; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

TARGAN, Inc. is seeking an R&D Controls Engineer in Raleigh, NC. The role focuses on hands-on design, programming, debugging, and commissioning automated equipment for customer facilities.

You will implement PLC/PAC control, machine safety, and machine vision using IEC61131-3 compliant languages and standard fieldbus protocols. You will work within cross-functional teams, build robust code with thorough documentation, and travel occasionally to supplier and customer sites.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or computer science is required.

Responsibilities

• Program PLC/PAC devices using IEC61131-3 languages.
• Integrate I/O with EtherCAT, Ethernet/IP, IO-Link protocols.
• Integrate machine vision and safety using standard protocols.
• Work with VFDs and sensors within PLC/PAC projects.
• Create HMI interfaces and possibly SCADA integrations.
• Understand electrical schematics and safety.
• Collaborate with engineers/scientists to deliver products.

Skills

PLC/PAC experience

IEC61131-3 languages

Industrial automation

HMI/SCADA

Python

C#

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or computer science

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.

R&D Controls Engineering Full Time Technical Raleigh, NC, US

2 days ago Requisition ID: 1104

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.

Key Job Responsibilities

• 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.
• 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.

Education & Experience Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or computer science.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience working with PLC/PAC technologies in an industrial environment.

Working Conditions

Work is performed inside a flex space building consisting of offices, open desk space, laboratory, machine shop, and a manufacturing floor. Level of noise is usually quiet in the office environment and temperature controlled. Noise levels are elevated in the warehouse space where temperatures can vary depending on the outside elements and weather. Travel may be required, including up to 2-8 trips per year to visit suppliers, attend conferences, meetings (customer, investor, and business) and customer sites (hatcheries).