Controls Engineer

Dana Corp; Louisville (KY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Dana Corp is seeking a Controls Engineer to design, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes in an automotive setting. You will work with PLCs, robotics, and automated systems to improve safety, productivity and quality while driving cost savings.

The role requires hands-on engineering skills, collaboration across functions, and a focus on continuous improvement and compliance with industry standards.

Qualifications

• Strong background in automotive manufacturing processes and industrial automation.
• Ability to analyze data, identify root causes and implement effective solutions.
• Experience coordinating multiple engineering projects and meeting deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes in an automotive environment.
• Troubleshoot and program PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens) and robot systems (FANUC, ABB).
• Develop and improve production workflows, layouts and equipment utilization.
• Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, quality, and production teams to support NPIs and cost savings.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

Skills

Automotive manufacturing systems

Industrial automation

Data analysis

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree or 4+ years of applicable experience

Job description

Dana is a global leader in the supply of highly engineered driveline, sealing, and thermal-management technologies that improve the efficiency and performance of vehicles with both conventional and alternative-energy powertrains. Serving two primary markets - passenger vehicle and commercial truck equipment - Dana provides the world's original-equipment manufacturers and the aftermarket with local product and service support through a network of nearly 100 engineering, manufacturing, and distribution facilities.

Job Purpose

The Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes to ensure efficient, cost-effective, and high-quality production within an automotive environment. This role supports continuous improvement initiatives, resolves production issues, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to introduce new products and technologies. The Controls Engineer ensures that all processes comply with safety, environmental, and industry standards while driving operational excellence.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• To be proficient in the use of PLC (programmable logic controllers). This includes troubleshooting, programming and documentation of PLC control programs. Proficiency required with Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLC's.
• Proficient with the use of robotics. This includes troubleshooting, teaching and programming of robotic programs. Proficiency required with FANUC and ABB Systems.
• Knowledge of miscellaneous production systems, such as HMI's, bar code readers, vision systems, etc...
• Knowledge of electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems (including automation control, AC and DC drives, mechanical drives and systems, sensors, and motor controls).
• To work with engineering and maintenance to offer solutions using hardware and software design to improve plant safety, increase productivity, improve quality, and decrease scrap.
• To collaborate with other functions to ensure project objectives are met on both modifications of existing equipment and installation of new equipment.
• Work with outside vendors to aid in successful project completion. Communicate all vendor visits and outcome to the maintenance manager.
• Must be capable of drawing PLC, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic prints.
• Develop and improve production workflows, layouts, and utilization of equipment to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
• Provide technical support to resolve process-related issues, equipment malfunctions, and quality concerns on the shop floor.
• Apply lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other methodologies to drive process improvements and cost savings.
• Work with engineering, quality, and production teams to integrate new products into manufacturing, including tooling, process validation, and documentation.
• Ensure all manufacturing processes meet safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Maintain accurate documentation including work instructions, process flows, and engineering change notices.

Education and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or 4+ years of applicable experience

Skills

• Strong understanding of automotive manufacturing systems, process engineering, and industrial automation.
• Ability to analyze data, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions in a dynamic production environment.
• Capable of managing multiple engineering projects, coordinating resources, and meeting deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills to work effectively with production, quality, maintenance, and leadership teams.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.

Unsolicited Resumes from Third-Party Recruiters

Please note that as per Dana policy, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters unless such recruiters were engaged to provide candidates for a specified opening. Any employment agency, person or entity that submits an unsolicited resume does so with the understanding that Dana will have the right to hire that applicant at its discretion without any fee owed to the submitting employment agency, person or entity.