Controls Engineer

Ferrara; Fairfield (CA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

401(k)

Paid time off (PTO)

Annual performance bonus

Job summary

A leading candy manufacturing company in California seeks a Controls Engineer to design and optimize control systems that ensure efficient production. Key responsibilities include managing PLC hardware, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with teams to implement solutions. Candidates should hold a relevant bachelor's degree and possess 3-5 years of experience in control automation. The position offers a salary range of $95,000 – $105,000, with comprehensive benefits including health and dental insurance.

Qualifications

• 3 to 5 years of process-industry experience with automation control.
• Experience in PLC ladder logic programming and HMI design.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and supervise electrical control systems.
• Manage PLC-based hardware and software installations.
• Troubleshoot and resolve equipment malfunctions.

Skills

Prioritization

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering, Engineering, or Business

Tools

PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens)

HMI design (Wonderware)

Control systems knowledge

Job description

Controls Engineer - Fairfield

As a Controls Engineer, reporting to the Maintenance Manager, you’ll play a key role in shaping the automation and technology that power our candy production.

You’ll design, maintain, and optimize control systems that keep our equipment running efficiently, reliably, and safely, helping us deliver consistently high‑quality products. Working closely with maintenance, engineering, and production teams, you’ll troubleshoot complex systems, implement innovative solutions, and drive continuous improvement across the plant.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and supervise all aspects of electrical control systems, equipment, and machinery.
• Manage the installation and support of PLC‑based hardware and software.
• Plan and manage new or modify existing installations to minimize waste of materials, improve quality, and reduce downtime.
• Identify and resolve malfunctions of equipment or systems, providing technical support and guidance to maintenance and production team members.
• Program PLCs (e.g., Allen‑Bradley, Siemens) using RSLogix 5000/500, FactoryTalk Studio, and Rslinx; handle instrument programming and integration.
• Configure and design HMI/OIT systems (e.g., Allen Bradley, Siemens, Wonderware); program HMI and PLC ladder logic and integrate discrete/analog devices.
• Familiar with Industry Standards UL and CE.
• Familiar with Vision Systems (e.g., Eagle Vision, Keyence).
• Familiar with motion controllers/actuators (e.g., Yasakawa, ABB, Kinetix).
• Familiar with RS232/RS485, Profibus DP/PA protocols, variable frequency drives, motor control centers, analog and digital signals, low‑to-medium‑power distribution systems.
• Provide hands‑on on‑site support to troubleshoot existing installations, PLCs, HMIs, instruments, and VFD issues.
• Read and understand electrical schematics, ladder logic programs, process flow diagrams, and process and instrumentation diagrams.

Skills That Will Make You Successful

• Ability to prioritize, multi‑task, and meet deadlines.
• Sharp, quick, dedicated, and innovative problem solver.
• Core values of continuous self‑improvement.
• Organized, detail‑oriented, and able to think designs through completely.

Experiences That Support Your Success

• Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering, Engineering, or Business.
• 3 to 5 years of process‑industry experience with automation control, PLC ladder logic programming, HMI design and configuration.

Physical Requirements

Ability to walk and/or stand for prolonged periods; ability to bend, stoop, and reach.

Working Conditions

This position requires knowledge and awareness of manufacturing and industrial sites. Protective gear will be required where appropriate. The role may require varying start times and weekend work depending on business needs.

What We Offer

At Ferrara, we’re proud to support our employees by providing comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, dental insurance, a 401(k), and paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Candy-2025-OE-QR.

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $95,000 – $105,000 annually.