Manufacturing Controls Engineering LDP - Full Time

Whirlpool, Inc.; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Annual bonus

401(k) match

Paid time off

Health savings accounts

Fertility and adoption support

Job summary

Whirlpool Corporation in the United States is launching its Full Time Manufacturing Leadership Development Program (MLDP): Controls Engineering Track. This 3-year, three-rotation program starts July 2027 and places you as a Controls Engineering Analyst, rotating between Plant Location 1 and Plant Location 2 to build automation and leadership skills.

You will design and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, robotics, MES, and IIoT projects, while mentored by senior engineers and exposed to senior leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Controls/Automation/Robotics/Mechatronics engineering.
• Graduating by May 2027.
• 0–18 months of relevant experience.
• Minimum GPA 2.8.
• Must have US work authorization.
• Willing to relocate to Findlay, OH or Clyde, OH.

Responsibilities

• Designing, building, and troubleshooting core automation systems such as PLCs, HMIs, motor drives.
• Integrating robotics, MES, and AI-powered vision systems.
• Leading cross-plant transformation projects with IIoT and AI/ML.
• Applying Lean and World Class Manufacturing to drive continuous improvement.
• Managing automation projects from concept to completion with stakeholders.

Skills

PLC

HMI

Robotics

Vision systems

Automation

Mechatronics

Education

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

Tools

MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems)

Job description

Requisition ID: 72388

About Whirlpool Corporation

Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is a leading home appliance company, in constant pursuit of improving life at home. As the only major U.S.-based manufacturer of kitchen and laundry appliances, the company is driving meaningful innovation to meet the evolving needs of consumers through its iconic brand portfolio, including Whirlpool, KitchenAid, JennAir, Maytag, Amana, Brastemp, Consul, and InSinkErator. In 2025, the company reported approximately $16 billion in annual net sales - close to 90% of which were in the Americas - 41,000 employees, and 35 manufacturing and technology research centers. Additional information about the company can be found at WhirlpoolCorp.com.

The Full Time Program - July 2027 Start Date

Our full time Manufacturing Leadership Development Program (MLDP): Controls Engineering Track provides an experience with World Class Manufacturing (WCM) operations at production plants that have made Whirlpool Corporation a global leader in manufacturing home appliances.

This intentionally structured, 3-year program is designed to accelerate controls engineering talent through three 12-month rotations at two of our plant locations. You will gain invaluable experience building a career with strategic impact, starting as a Controls Engineering Analyst and, upon completion of the program, have the opportunity to graduate as a Senior Analyst.

Rotational Assignments and Experiences

• Rotation 1: Plant Operations (Plant Location 1) - develop a strong technical foundation in controls engineering, project management, communication and teamwork.
• Rotation 2: Plant Operations (Plant Location 2) - deepen technical expertise in robotics and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), develop skills in problem-solving, collaboration, and early-stage project leadership.
• Rotation 3: Process Transformation - Focus area in automation and cross plant standardization by gaining experience in strategic thinking, change management, ROI analysis, and influencing others.

Your day-to-day

Build a deep technical and leadership foundation through progressively complex assignments. Key responsibilities include:

• Designing, building, and troubleshooting core automation systems like PLCs, HMIs, motor drives.
• Deepening technical expertise through the integration of advanced systems such as Robotics, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), and AI-powered vision systems.
• Leading and supporting strategic, cross-plant transformation projects focused on the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and AI/ML, culminating in a high-visibility Capstone Project.
• Applying Lean and World Class Manufacturing principles to analyze and solve complex business problems and drive continuous improvement.
• Managing automation projects in a cost and time-constrained environment. This includes developing project specifications with stakeholders, purchasing equipment, and seeing projects through from concept to completion.
• Building leadership capabilities through direct mentorship from senior engineers, formal project management experience, and collaboration with cross-functional business partners.

What We Offer

Program Benefits & Development

• Intentional Mentorship: Partner with a senior manufacturing leader for strategic career guidance and advocacy throughout your journey.
• Senior Leadership Exposure: Present directly to leadership each rotation to champion your initiatives and build your network from day one.
• Structured Support System: Navigate transitions seamlessly with a dedicated network of peer buddies, program managers, and team leaders.
• Continuous Improvement: Gain hands-on training in industry-standard methodologies to drive operational excellence.
• Leadership Curriculum: Accelerate your business acumen and strategic thinking while taking on active leadership roles within your peer group.
• Career Advancement: Opportunity for promotion upon successful program completion.

Total Rewards & Benefits

Whirlpool offers competitive compensation and benefits, including but not limited to relocation support, annual bonus, 401(k) match, paid time off, insurance plan, fitness reimbursement, health savings accounts, free wellness coaching, fertility and adoption support, parental (maternity and paternity) leave, education support, and free financial coaching.

Program Location

Manufacturing Leadership Development Program: Controls Engineering Track participants will rotate through our manufacturing plant locations in Findlay, OH and Clyde, OH during the 3 years of the program.

Learn more about our Manufacturing locations and the communities where we live & work here!

Minimum Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, Robotics Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology or a related field
• Pursuing a bachelor’s degree with plans to graduate before or by May 2027
• 0-18 months of relevant experience
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8
• Must have access to reliable transportation and be geographically mobile
• Must have indefinite US work authorization. Applicants who require visa sponsorship or work authorization now or in the future are not eligible for this program. For this position, Whirlpool Corporation will not sponsor visas for candidates

Preferred Skills and Experiences

• A strong technical foundation in PLC, HMI, robotics, or vision systems
• Applies strong analytical and problem solving skills to solve complex problems and make well-informed decisions
• A natural ability to lead and collaborate with teams to get things done
• Excellent communication and project management skills
• Prior internship or co-op experience in a manufacturing environment

Whirlpool Corporation is committed to equal employment opportunity and prohibits any discrimination on the basis of race or ethnicity, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other category protected by applicable law.