PLC Programmer - Automation Controls

Applied Medical; Rancho Santa Margarita (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with employer match

Education reimbursement

Competitive compensation

Training and mentorship

Job summary

Applied Medical in Rancho Santa Margarita is seeking a Controls Engineer to innovate medical device manufacturing with cutting-edge solutions. You will collaborate with teams to design automated systems, ensuring performance and compliance in a fast-paced environment.

Ideal candidates will have a strong engineering background, particularly in PLC programming, robotics, and control systems. This role offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth and development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Engineering.
• Experience in designing and programming PLCs and control systems.
• Strong understanding of electrical and pneumatic systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement electrical and pneumatic control systems.
• Develop, test, and maintain PLC and HMI software.
• Integrate robotics and safety systems into automation platforms.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI programming

Robotics

Control systems

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Computer Engineering

Tools

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)

Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs)

Job description

Applied Medical is a new‑generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field. Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute to a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.

Position Description

Are you ready to be at the forefront of revolutionizing medical device manufacturing? As a Controls Engineer within our Automation team, you'll be working on‑site at our global headquarters, pioneering cutting‑edge machines, collaborating across departments, and leading the way in cost reduction while optimizing manufacturing processes. It's your chance to make an enduring impact on the future of healthcare.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement electrical and pneumatic control systems, including schematics, component selection, and panel layouts, to support scalable and high‑performance automation solutions.
• Develop, test, and maintain Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and Human Machine Interface (HMI) software to ensure intuitive, reliable, and compliant machine control interfaces.
• Integrate robotics, motion control, sensors, and safety systems into cohesive automation platforms that meet production and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to troubleshoot equipment issues, reduce downtime, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Translate user and stakeholder requirements into clear technical specifications that guide system architecture and development.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for automation failures, ensuring rapid resolution and long‑term reliability.
• Author and maintain detailed documentation, including software design specifications, maintenance procedures, and validation protocols, to support regulatory compliance and knowledge sharing.

What Success Looks Like in This Role

• Automation systems are delivered on time, within budget, and meet all performance and compliance requirements.
• PLC and HMI programs are robust, user‑friendly, and minimize operator errors.
• Robotics and control systems operate seamlessly, reducing cycle times and improving production efficiency.
• Equipment downtime is minimized through proactive troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Documentation is clear, comprehensive, and supports smooth audits and knowledge transfer.
• Stakeholders view you as a trusted technical partner who drives innovation and cost reduction in manufacturing processes.

Position Requirements

• Work onsite in a collaborative team environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience.
• Experience designing and programming PLCs, HMIs, and control systems.
• Strong understanding of electrical and pneumatic systems, safety standards, and wiring practices.
• Hands‑on experience with robotics, motion control, vision systems, and system integration.
• Ability to write clear technical documentation and communicate effectively.
• Willingness to learn and grow in a dynamic environment.

Preferred

• Experience with safety PLCs and machine safety systems.
• Familiarity with industrial sensors, pneumatics, and motion control components.
• Ability to collaborate with vendors and cross‑functional teams.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience in regulated manufacturing environments.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation range: $85000 - $135000 / year (California).
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Training and mentorship opportunities.
• On‑campus wellness activities.
• Education reimbursement program.
• 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
• Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply.

Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well‑being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.

All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Applied Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.