Controls Engineer (PLC, Robotics, SCADA)

CBTS; Greensboro (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

CBTS is seeking a Controls Engineer to grow in a live production setting, focusing on PLC systems across Mitsubishi, Rockwell/AB, and Siemens platforms. You will develop SCADA/MES solutions using Ignition in an automotive production environment and work with OPC UA and other protocols to ensure robust operations.

Ideal candidates have hands-on PLC experience, familiarity with SCADA/MES tools, and exposure to FANUC robotics.

Qualifications

• Hands-on PLC experience with Mitsubishi, Rockwell/AB, or Siemens platforms.
• Experience with SCADA/MES platforms, Ignition preferred.
• Exposure to robotic automation systems (FANUC preferred).
• Bachelor's degree in a related technical field or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Strong problem-solving mindset for a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC systems across major platforms.
• Develop and support SCADA/MES solutions in automotive production.
• Work with OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus, EtherNet/IP protocols.
• Support FANUC robotics: programming, troubleshooting, integration.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, and engineering to resolve control issues.
• Contribute to TPS-aligned continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

PLC systems experience

Industrial protocols

SCADA/MES familiarity

Robotic automation exposure

Problem solving

Cross-functional teamwork

Plant-floor operation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Controls/Computer Engineering

Tools

Ignition SCADA

OPC UA

Python scripting

FANUC robotics

Mitsubishi PLC

Rockwell/Allen-Bradley PLC

Siemens PLC

Job description

We're looking for a Controls Engineer who is ready to grow into a high-impact role supporting PLC systems, robotics, SCADA, and industrial communications in a live production environment.

What You'll Do

• Program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC systems across Mitsubishi, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, and Siemens platforms
• Support and develop SCADA and MES solutions using Ignition in an active automotive production environment
• Work with industrial communication protocols including OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus, and EtherNet/IP
• Support FANUC robotic automation systems — programming, troubleshooting, and integration
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, and engineering teams to identify and resolve control system issues
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives aligned with Toyota Production System (TPS) principles

What We're Looking For

• Hands-on experience with PLC systems (Mitsubishi, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, or Siemens)
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols: OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus, EtherNet/IP
• Experience with SCADA or MES platforms — Ignition experience is a strong plus
• Exposure to robotic automation systems, FANUC preferred
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field — or equivalent hands-on experience
• Strong problem-solving mindset and ability to work effectively on a plant floor in a fast-paced production environment

This Is Not a Legacy Controls Role

You won't be maintaining aging systems with outdated tools. This role uses a modern, integrated controls stack — Ignition SCADA, OPC UA, Python scripting, and FANUC robotics — in a production environment that demands both precision and innovation. If you want to develop real-world expertise on a platform that the industry is moving toward, this is the place to do it.

Location & Logistics

Liberty, NC is located in the Piedmont Triad region, 30 minutes from Greensboro and within easy reach of Burlington and Asheboro. The area offers a low cost of living, outdoor recreation, and a strong manufacturing community.

• Onsite position — Liberty, NC

Required Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with PLC systems (Mistubishi, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens)
• Experience with industrial communication protocols (OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus, EtherNet/IP)
• Familiarity with robotic automation systems (FANUC preferred)
• Experience with SCADA and MES systems (Ignitions preferred) used in automotive production
• Proficiency with Ubuntu based Linux-based edge devices and industrial PCs
• Strong understanding of industrial networking (Cisco, Hirshmann) and OT/IT integration
• Knowledge of Low Code/Citizen Development tools (Bi, Mendix, Power Platform)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a manufacturing plant or Tier 1 manufacturing supplier
• Knowledge of Client Production System principles: Kaizen, Just-in-Time, Jidoka
• Experience with TimeScale (Postgres), InfluxDB, or other time-series data platforms
• Understanding of cybersecurity standards and industrial safety protocols
• Experience implementing digital twins or simulation models for production optimization
• Cloud certifications in Microsoft Azure or AWS
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices for industrial environments
• Understanding of Semantic Data Structuring (Namespaces/UNS/ISA-95/Sparkplug B/EAM)
• Familiarity with Open Manufacturing Platform and/or functional IIOT requirements for Manufacturing
• Strong alignment with Client culture and continuous improvement mindset (Kaizen)
• Deep understanding of automotive manufacturing processes and takt-driven production
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams (production, quality, maintenance, IT)
• Expertise in real-time data processing and low-latency systems
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills in high-pressure production environments
• Excellent communication and documentation skills
• Primarily based in Liberty North CarolinaPrimarily based in Liberty North Carolina
• Requires use of PPE and adherence to plant safety protocols
• May involve off-shift or on-call support for critical production systems
• OSHA10 and ESWP Certifications for low voltage work

Impact of the Role

• Supports client’s mission of built-in quality and operational excellence