Controls Automation Engineer – PLC, Vision, AI-Driven QA

100249 Saia-Burgess LLC; Vandalia (MO); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Johnson Electric seeks a Process Engineering Technician to drive smooth transitions from prototype to production, optimize PLC-based automation, and support AI‑enabled improvements across manufacturing lines.

You will qualify products using IQ/OQ/PQ/FQ, validate tests, and train operators while collaborating with cross‑functional teams to reduce waste and improve reliability in a diverse production environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in JMT assembly or similar manufacturing environments.
• Hands-on experience with PLC programming, troubleshooting, and logic modification (Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent preferred).
• Experience with industrial vision systems for inspection and verification.
• Knowledge of data and signal processing, including interpreting machine outputs for diagnostics and process improvement.
• Familiarity with automation systems, robotics interfaces, sensors, and machine control integration.
• Understanding of mechanical controls, pneumatics, actuators, and electromechanical systems.
• Ability to use measurement equipment during qualification runs.
• Strong attention to detail; ensures new processes are robust and well‑documented.
• Proactive attitude toward identifying potential waste, safety risks, or quality concerns.
• Willingness to adopt and support AI‑enabled tools for analysis and improvement.

Responsibilities

• Run IQ, OQ, PQ, and FQ protocols to qualify products.
• Conduct test method validations to ensure new testers meet performance requirements.
• Integrate, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC‑based automation systems and electrical controls on production equipment.
• Configure and support industrial vision systems used for inspection, error proofing, and quality verification.
• Analyze equipment signals, machine data, and sensor outputs; support AI‑assisted predictive maintenance and equipment optimization.
• Facilitate prototype builds and document production readiness issues.
• Execute and document pilot builds to ensure manufacturing validation.
• Create work instructions and support smooth transitions to production.
• Verify and optimize cycle times to ensure compliance with engineering estimates.
• Train operators on new processes, controls, and automation systems.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to resolve issues and enhance manufacturing processes.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives aimed at reducing waste, improving automation reliability, and simplifying processes.

Skills

PLC programming

Troubleshooting

Vision systems

Data interpretation

Automation systems

Electromechanical systems

Measurement equipment

Job description

Johnson Electric seeks a Process Engineering Technician to drive smooth transitions from prototype to production, optimize PLC-based automation, and support AI‑enabled improvements across manufacturing lines.

You will qualify products using IQ/OQ/PQ/FQ, validate tests, and train operators while collaborating with cross‑functional teams to reduce waste and improve reliability in a diverse production environment.