Controls Engineer

WESTPORT AXLE CO., LLC; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Westport Axle Co., LLC, a subsidiary of Universal Logistics Holdings, is seeking a Controls Engineer in Cloverdale, VA to maintain and enhance PLC-based automation across the plant. You will troubleshoot, optimize, and program PLC logic, while supporting equipment uptime and process efficiency.

The role requires a Bachelor's in a related engineering field and 1-5 years in controls; familiarity with Allen-Bradley or Siemens PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related technical field is preferred.
• 1-5 years of experience in controls or automation in manufacturing.
• Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment in a manufacturing, logistics, or distribution environment.
• Ability to read electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.

Responsibilities

• Support and maintain PLC, HMI, and automated material handling systems throughout the facility.
• Troubleshoot controls, electrical, and automation-related issues to minimize downtime and improve system reliability.
• Program, modify, and optimize PLC logic as operational needs evolve.
• Develop and maintain controls documentation, wiring diagrams, process flows, and equipment specifications.
• Partner with Operations and Maintenance teams to resolve production and material flow challenges.
• Support new equipment installations, system upgrades, and process automation projects.

Skills

PLC troubleshooting

Electrical control systems

Schematic reading

Project coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Controls/Mechatronics/Automation

1-5 years of experience in controls/automation/manufacturing

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLC

Siemens PLC

HMIs / VFDs

Industrial networks

Job description

Are you looking to join a dynamic team that provides its people with the tools to be successfull and opportunities to grow? Universal Logistics is a leading provider of customized transportation and logistics solutions, offering a comprehensive suite of services including transportation, value-added, intermodal, and specialized services utilized throughout entire supply chains. Universal has immediate career opportunities in your area.

Westport Axle Co., a subsidiary of Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc., is a leading transportation and third-party logistics provider offering a broad range of services throughout the supply chain. Leveraging advanced technology and experienced leadership, we deliver customized logistics solutions that improve efficiency, accuracy, and service for our customers.

This position is based in Cloverdale, VA, supporting Volvo's manufacturing operations. The facility manages production support, warehousing, inventory management, and material flow activities that are critical to maintaining customer production schedules and operational performance.

Position Summary Responsibilities

• Support and maintain PLC, HMI, and automated material handling systems throughout the facility.
• Troubleshoot controls, electrical, and automation-related issues to minimize downtime and improve system reliability.
• Program, modify, and optimize PLC logic as operational needs evolve.
• Monitor equipment performance and identify opportunities to improve uptime, throughput, and efficiency.
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance programs for automated systems and controls equipment.
• Develop and maintain controls documentation, wiring diagrams, process flows, and equipment specifications.
• Partner with Operations and Maintenance teams to resolve production and material flow challenges.
• Support new equipment installations, system upgrades, and process automation projects.
• Conduct root cause analysis for recurring equipment failures and implement long-term corrective actions.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, and cost reduction.
• Assist in commissioning and startup activities for new automation and controls systems.
• Coordinate with outside vendors, contractors, and customer engineering teams on technical projects.
• Provide technical training and support to maintenance and operations personnel.
• Ensure compliance with customer requirements, company standards, and applicable safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.
• 1-5 years of experience in controls, automation, manufacturing, or industrial engineering.
• Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment in a manufacturing, logistics, or distribution environment.
• Knowledge of PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar systems.
• Experience working with HMIs, VFDs, sensors, motors, barcode systems, and industrial networks.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and project management abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating across multiple departments.
• Flexibility to support off-shift projects, maintenance activities, and operational needs as required.

Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: ULH) is a holding company that owns subsidiaries engaged in providing a variety of customized transportation and logistics solutions throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Our operating subsidiaries provide customers with supply chain solutions that can be scaled to meet their changing demands and volumes. Universal’s consolidated subsidiaries offer customers a broad array of services across the entire supply chain, including Contract Logistics, Dedicated Transportation, Intermodal, and Trucking.