Controls Engineer

Piab Group; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leader in automation solutions seeks a skilled Controls Engineer based in Hickory, NC. This full-time role involves designing control systems, troubleshooting technical issues, and requires some travel. The ideal candidate will hold a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering and have hands-on experience with advanced machinery. Join our innovative team to enhance automation solutions for clients worldwide.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience working with advanced machinery and various PLC logic.
• Clear documentation and writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Design control systems using PLCs and sensors.
• Troubleshoot and resolve control system issues.

Skills

Hands-on experience with advanced machinery

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Ability to create wiring diagrams

Networking experience

Clear documentation skills

BOM creation and management

Knowledge of controls development

Analytical judgement

Teamwork

Self-development

Innovation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Electronics background

Job description

Controls Engineer

Piab Group

About Piab Group

At Piab Group we improve our customers' productivity, sustainability, and safety through evolving industrial automation and have done so since 1951. We believe in an automated world where no resources are wasted, and no humans are injured. With annual sales of ~3 billion SEK and more than 1 400 employees, Piab is a global organisation, serving customers in more than 100 countries from a vast network of subsidiaries and channel partners. Since 2018, Piab Group has been owned by Patricia Industries, part of Investor AB.

Job Mission

Manage controls of customised vacuum‑driven robotic gripping equipment tailored to fit customer‑specified systems. The role involves working with customers to understand their needs, providing field service and support remotely and at times on‑site. It is both a customer‑facing and operational support position, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of industry innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and Development: Create control systems using hardware (PLCs, sensors, actuators) and software (ladder logic, HMI/SCADA) to automate machinery and processes.
• System Integration: Integrate control systems with existing equipment and ensure seamless operation between various components.
• Programming: Write, test and debug programs for PLCs, DCS and other automation equipment.
• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve issues with control systems, including hardware malfunctions and software bugs.
• Documentation: Prepare and maintain detailed documentation, such as wiring diagrams, control schematics and user manuals.
• Testing and Commissioning: Oversee the installation, testing and commissioning of control systems to meet design specifications and safety standards.
• Continuous Improvement: Analyse system performance and implement improvements to increase efficiency, reliability and safety. Evaluate new products and develop specifications and standards for use in automated equipment.
• Training: Engage in continuous learning to optimise automation systems (electrical, pneumatic, mechanical, software – PLC programming, HMI/SCADA, robotic control, vacuum technology).
• Collaboration: Work closely with the Wood Sales and Operations Team and other departments, influencing customer satisfaction and support.
• Compliance: Ensure all control systems comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations and company policies.

Key Interfaces

Controls Engineer reports to Alan Proffit and is part of the Wood Industry Robotic Gripping Team. Works closely with other engineers, technicians, production staff and customers to understand requirements and deliver effective automation solutions.

Skills and Abilities

• Hands‑on experience working with advanced machinery and various PLC logic.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to create wiring diagrams.
• Networking experience.
• Clear documentation and writing skills.
• Experience in BOM creation and management.
• Knowledge of controls development.
• Analytical judgement – quickly understand and analyse complex issues and problems, making sound judgments.
• Constructive teamwork – cooperates well with others, shares knowledge and information to strengthen the team.
• Self‑development – aware of own strengths and limitations and pursues learning opportunities.
• Innovation – produces fresh, creative ideas and solutions; promotes growth and development for Piab.

Experience and Educational Background

• Bachelor’s (preferred) in Mechanical, Electrical or related Engineering.
• Electronics background.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Position involves a mix of office, manufacturing and field environments, with close collaboration with manufacturing and final product testing prior to shipment.

Travel

• Requires travel; estimate 1–2 weeks per month.

Work Remotely

• No. Work will be performed at Hickory, NC office or customer locations.

FLSA Status

• Exempt

Disclaimer

Piab provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. No person is to be discriminated against in any aspect of the employment relationship due to race, religion, colour, sex, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status, marital status, veteran status, or any other reason prohibited by law.

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Industry

Automation Machinery Manufacturing

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