Controls Engineer

Adecco Permanent Recruitment; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Adecco Permanent Recruitment is seeking a highly motivated Controls Engineer to support, maintain, and optimize manufacturing control systems critical to production performance, quality, and safety.

You will troubleshoot automated processes, lead root cause analyses, and drive continuous improvement initiatives that minimize downtime while safely delivering reliable, high-quality output. Collaboration with maintenance, production, and engineering teams is essential.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's in Engineering or related field; hands-on experience considered.
• Minimum 2 years as a Controls/Automation Engineer in manufacturing.
• Experience with robotic automation systems in production.

Responsibilities

• Analyze machine performance and optimize manufacturing processes using PLC and data.
• Troubleshoot control systems and lead root cause analyses.
• Support equipment launches and process implementations with proper documentation.
• Mentor maintenance technicians to improve troubleshooting skills.
• Plan and execute automation and continuous improvement projects.
• Coordinate with vendors and integrators on new technologies.

Skills

PLC Programming

HMI Development

Industrial Automation

Analytical thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Engineering/Automation degree

Tools

AutoCAD

FactoryTalk View Studio

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated Controls Engineer to support, maintain, and optimize manufacturing control systems that are critical to production performance, quality, and safety. In this role, you will be responsible for troubleshooting and improving automated manufacturing processes, leading root cause analysis efforts, and driving continuous improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and minimize downtime.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineering professional who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, can work independently with minimal supervision, and enjoys collaborating with cross-functional teams to solve complex technical challenges. You will play a key role in supporting production, launching new equipment and processes, and developing automation solutions that improve reliability, quality, and productivity.

What You Will Do

• Analyze machine performance and optimize manufacturing processes using PLC and automation data.
• Troubleshoot control systems and lead root cause analysis efforts for recurring and intermittent equipment issues.
• Design, select, and integrate error-proofing and quality verification systems to improve product quality.
• Maintain and troubleshoot industrial Ethernet networks and communication systems.
• Conduct audits of safety control systems and ensure equipment complies with safety requirements.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute automation, controls, and continuous improvement projects.
• Partner with equipment manufacturers, integrators, and automation vendors to implement new technologies and process improvements.
• Support new equipment launches and manufacturing process implementations, ensuring all documentation, manuals, spare parts lists, preventive maintenance requirements, and technical resources are transferred and maintained.
• Lead process improvement activities for new and existing manufacturing operations.
• Develop and improve preventive maintenance programs in collaboration with maintenance and production teams.
• Provide technical support for controls-related production issues and respond quickly to minimize downtime.
• Mentor and support maintenance technicians to improve troubleshooting capabilities and technical expertise.
• Ensure manufacturing equipment operates safely, efficiently, and reliably.
• Assist with equipment installation, commissioning, validation, and ongoing maintenance activities.
• Evaluate equipment and spare parts requirements and support procurement recommendations.
• Identify opportunities to improve productivity, quality, and cost performance through automation and process optimization.

What You'll Need

Education & Experience

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, Programming, or a related technical field. Equivalent hands-on experience will also be considered.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a Controls Engineer, Automation Engineer, Maintenance Technician, or related role within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience supporting and troubleshooting robotic automation systems in production.
• Experience working in high-volume manufacturing environments, including Just-in-Time (JIT), sequencing, batch, or automated assembly operations.

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of automated manufacturing systems, assembly equipment, and industrial controls.
• Experience with:
• Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Project
• AutoCAD
• FactoryTalk View Studio

Controls & Automation Expertise

• PLC Programming and Troubleshooting (2+ years preferred)
• HMI Development and Support (2+ years preferred)
• FactoryTalk View Studio
• PanelView Plus
• Machine Vision Systems (2+ years preferred)
• Cognex
• Robotics
• Robot path touch-up
• Troubleshooting production stoppages
• Supporting robotic manufacturing applications

What Makes You Successful

• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and prioritize multiple responsibilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communicator who collaborates well across engineering, maintenance, production, and leadership teams.
• Passionate about continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Comfortable coaching and developing others while driving accountability and results.
• Committed to maintaining a safe, efficient, and high-performing manufacturing environment.