Automation Engineer

Insight Global; Summerville (SC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Insight Global is seeking a Controls Engineer to support and improve automated manufacturing equipment in a fast-paced production environment. This role focuses on troubleshooting, maintaining, and optimizing PLC-controlled machinery to ensure reliable plant operations.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on problem-solving skills, strong PLC controls experience, and an understanding of manufacturing processes to diagnose complex automation issues and drive continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 2–4 years in machine building, automation, or controls troubleshooting.
• Strong knowledge of PLC programming and industrial controls.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and repair PLC-controlled production machinery and automated equipment.
• Diagnose and resolve equipment failures, controls issues, and process problems.
• Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance programs.
• Analyze machine performance and identify improvement opportunities.
• Read electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical drawings.
• Troubleshoot ladder logic and electrical control systems.
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and production teams to minimize downtime.
• Assist with equipment upgrades and automation projects.
• Communicate project status and findings clearly.

Skills

PLC programming

Troubleshooting

Industrial controls

Manufacturing processes

Reading schematics

Education

Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering

Associate's degree in engineering-related field

Tools

PLC programming software

Ladder logic

Electrical diagrams tools

Job description

(Exact compensation may vary based on several factors, including skills, experience, and education)

This is a 2nd shift position- 2:30pm-10:30pm

Job Description

Insight Global is seeking a Controls Engineer to support and improve automated manufacturing equipment within a fast-paced production environment. This role is responsible for troubleshooting, maintaining, and optimizing PLC-controlled machinery while helping ensure reliable plant operations.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on problem solver with strong PLC controls experience, a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, and the ability to diagnose complex equipment and automation issues. This position offers the opportunity to make a direct impact on production efficiency, equipment reliability, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

-Troubleshoot and repair PLC-controlled production machinery and automated equipment.

-Diagnose and resolve equipment failures, controls issues, and process-related problems.

-Perform root cause analysis and implement long-term corrective actions.

-Support preventative and predictive maintenance programs.

-Analyze machine performance and identify improvement opportunities.

-Read and interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical drawings.

-Troubleshoot ladder logic and electrical control systems.

-Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and production teams to minimize downtime.

-Assist with equipment upgrades, controls improvements, and automation projects.

-Communicate project status, repair progress, and technical findings effectively.

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, or
• Associate's degree in an engineering-related field with equivalent industry experience.

Experience

• 3-5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• 2-4 years of experience in machine building, automation, or controls troubleshooting.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of PLC programming, logic troubleshooting, and industrial controls.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and production equipment.
• Ability to read and understand ladder logic.
• Ability to interpret electrical one-line diagrams, schematics, and blueprints.
• Knowledge of manufacturing materials and methods.
• Understanding of GD&T principles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to learn and adapt to new automation software and hardware platforms.
• Basic knowledge of geometry and trigonometry.