Controls Engineer (Automotive Industry) - Elizabethtown, Kentucky

MissionHires; Elizabethtown (KY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

MissionHires is recruiting a Controls / Automation Engineer for a Tier 1 automotive manufacturer in Elizabethtown, KY. This role involves supporting, programming, and improving plant automation using technologies like Allen‑Bradley/Rockwell PLCs and ABB robots.

The ideal candidate should have an associate degree in a related field and substantial experience in programming and troubleshooting automation systems. The position offers a salary range of $90,000–$110,000 depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years programming and troubleshooting robotics or control systems.
• At least 3 years working with industrial manufacturing equipment.
• Hands-on experience programming PLC systems.

Responsibilities

• Assist with installation, startup, debugging, and programming of automated production equipment.
• Program and troubleshoot PLC systems, primarily Allen-Bradley / Rockwell.
• Support and troubleshoot robotic systems, including ABB robots.

Skills

Programming PLC systems

Troubleshooting robotics

Diagnostic skills

Collaboration with teams

Education

Associate degree in Electronics, Automation, or related field

Tools

Allen-Bradley / Rockwell PLCs

ABB robots

Job description

MissionHires is recruiting a Controls / Automation Engineer for a Tier 1 automotive manufacturer in Elizabethtown, KY. This role will support, program, and improve plant automation—focusing on Allen‑Bradley/Rockwell PLCs, ABB robots, and automated production equipment—to increase reliability, quality, and uptime. Salary: $90,000–$110,000 DOE.

Responsibilities

• Assist with installation, startup, debugging, and programming of automated production equipment
• Program and troubleshoot PLC systems, primarily Allen-Bradley / Rockwell platforms
• Support and troubleshoot robotic systems, including ABB robots
• Partner with maintenance to identify priorities and support equipment improvements
• Assist machine repair teams with diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repair of automated equipment
• Maintain and update automation documentation, control parameters, and program backups
• Support Poka‑Yoke and error‑proofing initiatives to improve quality and reliability
• Collaborate with production and engineering to boost efficiency, productivity, and equipment uptime
• Support continuous improvement, including equipment upgrades and cell modifications
• Provide technical support across multiple shifts to ensure efficient automation performance

Requirements

• Associate degree in Electronics, Automation, Computer Science, or related field, or equivalent experience
• Minimum 2 years programming and troubleshooting robotics or control systems
• At least 3 years working with industrial manufacturing equipment
• Hands‑on experience programming and troubleshooting PLC systems
• Experience with Allen‑Bradley / Rockwell controls (preferred)
• Experience with ABB robotic systems (highly preferred)
• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills in automated manufacturing environments
• Ability to work cross‑functionally with engineering, maintenance, and production teams