Automation Engineer

Cindavi; Portland (ME); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Cindavi is seeking a Controls Programmer I in Portland, Maine to transform electrical and mechanical concepts into reliable automation. You will program, debug, and commission custom machinery, working with technicians to validate machine operation and ensure systems perform as intended.

This role offers exposure to PLC programming, machine sequencing, electrical systems, operator interfaces, documentation, and field service, ideal for an early-career controls professional seeking growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
• Working knowledge of ladder logic programming for a variety of PLC platforms.
• Familiarity with PLC networks, communications, and hardware and software interfaces.
• Knowledge of foundational electrical concepts, including PNP and NPN switches, AC and DC circuits, E-Stop circuits, and stepper or servo motor function.
• The ability to read and understand electrical prints and technical documents.
• A safety-first mindset and willingness to work in an active, hands-on environment, including occasional travel when needed.

Responsibilities

• Write and debug PLC code in accordance with work instructions, project specifications, and customer requirements.
• Program graphic user interfaces that help operators interact confidently with automated equipment.
• Partner with mechanical and electrical technicians to confirm machine sequences and achieve reliable system functionality.
• Test switches, cylinders, actuators, and other devices to verify that every component performs as intended.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, including drawings, parts lists, calibration data, wire lists, and specifications.
• Support machine-manual development and occasional field service work for installation, modification, and system support.
• Contribute ideas that improve processes, quality, and the way our team works.

Skills

Ladder logic

PLC programming

Electrical concepts

Reading electrical prints

Education

BS in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering

Job description

We are looking for a Controls Programmer who thrives on solving problems and making machines move.

If you enjoy turning electrical and mechanical concepts into reliable, working automation, this is a role where your contribution will be visible every day. We are seeking a Controls Programmer I to join our team and help program, debug, and commission custom machinery. You will work alongside experienced mechanical and electrical technicians to solve real-world problems, validate machine operation, and make sure each system is ready to perform.

This opportunity is ideal for an early-career controls professional who wants to strengthen their PLC programming skills while gaining meaningful exposure to machine sequencing, electrical systems, operator interfaces, documentation, and field service.

Key Responsibilities

• Write and debug PLC code in accordance with work instructions, project specifications, and customer requirements.
• Program graphic user interfaces that help operators interact confidently with automated equipment.
• Partner with mechanical and electrical technicians to confirm machine sequences and achieve reliable system functionality.
• Test switches, cylinders, actuators, and other devices to verify that every component performs as intended.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, including drawings, parts lists, calibration data, wire lists, and specifications.
• Support machine-manual development and occasional field service work for installation, modification, and system support.
• Contribute ideas that improve processes, quality, and the way our team works.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
• A working knowledge of ladder logic programming for a variety of PLC platforms.
• Familiarity with PLC networks, communications, and hardware and software interfaces.
• Knowledge of foundational electrical concepts, including PNP and NPN switches, AC and DC circuits, E-Stop circuits, and stepper or servo motor function.
• The ability to read and understand electrical prints and technical documents.
• A safety-first mindset and willingness to work in an active, hands-on environment, including occasional travel when needed.

If you are ready to grow your controls career, work closely with talented technicians, and see your code power real machines, we would love to hear from you.