Controls Engineer/Engineering Project Manager

Praxis Packaging; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Praxis Packaging in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is seeking a Controls Engineer to drive automation solutions in a pharmaceutical packaging environment. The role includes designing, optimizing, and maintaining control systems, troubleshooting equipment issues, and collaborating with various teams to enhance performance. Candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Controls Engineering and at least 3 years of experience in industrial automation. Knowledge of PLC programming and experience in regulated environments preferred. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact in a fast-paced setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related technical field required.
• 3+ years of experience in industrial automation or controls engineering.
• Experience with PLC programming required.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain PLC, HMI, and control system programs.
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical and controls-related issues.
• Support new equipment installations and product launches.

Skills

Industrial automation

PLC programming

Troubleshooting skills

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related technical field

Tools

Allen-Bradley

Siemens

Job description

Overview

Step into a high-impact role where engineering meets innovation in a fast-paced, highly regulated manufacturing environment. As a Controls Engineer at Praxis, you’ll be at the center of driving automation excellence—designing, optimizing, and supporting the systems that power critical pharmaceutical packaging operations. This is more than a technical role; it’s an opportunity to shape scalable solutions, influence production performance, and play a key role in delivering quality products on tight timelines. If you thrive on solving complex problems, collaborating across teams, and seeing your work directly impact client success, this is where your expertise will make a difference.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain PLC, HMI, and control system programs for packaging and processing equipment.
• Support new equipment installations, startups, and product launches, including integration of control systems.
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical and controls-related issues on production equipment in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Operations to improve equipment performance, efficiency, and reliability.
• Assist with equipment qualifications, including Installation, Operational, and Performance Qualifications (IQ/OQ/PQ).
• Develop and maintain electrical schematics, control narratives, and system documentation.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and production personnel on control systems.
• Work with external vendors and integrators to specify, design, and implement automation solutions.
• Monitor system performance and implement continuous improvement initiatives related to controls and automation.
• Ensure all control systems comply with company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Support data collection and integration with plant systems, including ERP or other reporting tools where applicable.
• Maintain backup systems and version control for all control programs and related documentation.
• Responsible for adherence to all Company policies and procedures.
• Performs any other functions and duties assigned and necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of Praxis Packaging Solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related technical field, required or equivalent combination
• 3+ years of experience in industrial automation or controls engineering, preferably in packaging or manufacturing environment
• Experience with PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar platforms) required
• Experience working in a regulated environment (cGMP, OTC, or pharmaceutical) preferred
• Experience with vision systems, motion control, and robotics preferred