Principal Controls Engineer

GE Appliances; Louisville, Northern (KY, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

GE Appliances, a Haier company, seeks an experienced Principal Controls Engineer to lead advanced automation and control system implementations in our Louisville facilities. You will design architectures, develop PLCs and HMIs, and collaborate across teams to optimize manufacturing processes and safety.

The role requires 7+ years in controls engineering, expertise with Rockwell/Studio 5000, and a strong emphasis on safety standards.

Qualifications

• BS degree in engineering or equivalent hands-on experience
• Minimum 7+ years of controls engineering in automated manufacturing
• Experience with Rockwell control systems (Studio 5000) and FactoryTalk View
• Knowledge of machine safety standards (ISO 13849)
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities

Responsibilities

• Specify and design advanced control systems for automation equipment
• Develop control system architectures and integrate hardware/software
• Create PLC programming, HMI development, and network configurations
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to refine manufacturing processes
• Analyze performance data and implement efficiency improvements
• Lead safety and compliance with machine safety standards
• Provide technical leadership and mentor engineers
• Oversee and troubleshoot control system implementations

Skills

Controls engineering

Cross-functional teamwork

Communication

Decision making

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor of Science in Engineering or related discipline

BS/MS in Electrical Engineering (preferred)

Tools

Rockwell Automation

Studio 5000

FactoryTalk View

AutoCAD

MS Office

Job description

At GE Appliances, a Haier company, we come together to make “good things, for life.” As the fastest-growing appliance company in the U.S., we’re powered by creators, thinkers and makers who believe that anything is possible and that there’s always a better way. We believe in the power of our people and in giving them the freedom to explore, discover and build good things, together. The GE Appliances philosophy, backed by three simple commitments defines the way we work, invent, create, do business, and serve our communities: we come together, we always look for a better way, and we create possibilities.

Interested in joining us on our journey? We are seeking an experienced Principal AME C[NP(AH1.1]ontrols Engineer who will play a pivotal role in bringing advanced automation equipment into our manufacturing facilities. The area of focus involves manufacture, assembly, and related content for appliance components. The team is looking to hire an individual with creative talent and a proven ability to look past what is currently done or requested and develop a practical, implementable vision for machine control systems.

This is an exceptional opportunity for engineers seeking to contribute to innovative product development while embracing a fulfilling work-life balance. Given the nature of this job, on-site work is a must. However, we strive to provide flexible scheduling to enable work-life balance for our team members while delivering projects on time or ahead of schedule.

Position Principal Controls Engineer Location USA, Louisville, KY

How You’ll Create Possibilities

Job Description

• Specify and design advanced control systems for advanced automation equipment, ensuring compliance with specifications, internal standards, budget constraints, and current machine safety standards.
• Specify and develop detailed control system architectures, select and integrate appropriate hardware and software components (primarily Rockwell Automation products).
• Create and implement detailed PLC programming, HMI development, and network configurations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and refine manufacturing processes, ensuring alignment with internal and industry standards and best practices.
• Analyze system performance data, identify areas for improvement, and implement changes to enhance efficiency, productivity, and safety.
• Research and stay abreast of emerging technologies and best practices in industrial control systems, including advancements in automation, robotics, and machine safety.
• Oversee the implementation of control systems, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to project specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex control system issues to minimize downtime and enhance operational efficiency.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Facilitate the development of less experienced controls engineers.
• Ensure all control systems comply with relevant safety regulations and standards.
• Lead machine safety risk assessments to establish required safety performance level.
• Actively participate in brainstorming sessions, identify opportunities for process optimization, and contribute to the overall success of the manufacturing organization.

What You’ll Bring to Our Team

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering or related discipline OR equivalent hands-on experience in technical/manufacturing disciplines.
• 7+ years of hands-on & relevant controls engineering experience with automated manufacturing equipment and processes.
• Experience with Rockwell Automation control systems, Studio 5000, FactoryTalk View.
• Knowledge and practice of machine safety (ISO 13849).
• Ability to work in large cross-functional teams and at multiple levels in the organization (both salaried and shop floor operators / skilled trades team members)
• Good communication skills – will be expected to provide program report outs to cross-functional team
• Ability to make decisions and willingness to take ownership of complex projects
• Proficient in MS Office and AutoCAD
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively convey technical information to diverse audiences.
• Willingness to travel as required, typically ~25%.

PREFERRED

• BS/MS degree in Electrical Engineering
• Experience with Emerson & Siemens PLC hardware and software
• Strong understanding of machine safety standards (e.g., ANSI/RIA R15.06, NFPA 79, ISO 13849) and the ability to apply them to system design.
• TUV Certification in machine safety.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• This position is primarily based in Louisville, KY, but may require travel to other locations as needed.
• The primary work schedule is the 1st shift; however, occasional support during weekends, 2nd, and 3rd shifts may be necessary.
• Travel (domestic and international) may be required approximately 20-30% of the time in accordance with project requirements.

Our Culture

Our work is centered on our People and Culture as reflected in our Zero Distance philosophy and we recognize the importance of reaffirming our commitment to inclusion and diversity (I&D). This underscores our commitment to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, connected, and empowered to contribute, while positioning our organization to adapt seamlessly to the evolving needs of our workforce and communities. This reflects our dedication to creating solutions that: Empower colleagues by fostering an environment where all voices are heard, valued, and encouraged to contribute. Strengthen communities where we live and work. Reinforce a culture of belonging, purpose, and engagement. Reflect the diversity of the communities we serve through our workforce, products, and practices. By further embedding Zero Distance into our People and Culture framework, we will continue to build a deeply connected organization. We are cultivating a culture of engagement, belonging, and connection, because while attracting new talent remains a priority, retention is a cornerstone of our strategy.

GE Appliances is a trust-based organization. It is important we offer our employees the flexibility they need to do their best work while balancing the needs of the business and individuals. When you join GE Appliances, you will have the opportunity to work with your leader to create a flexible work arrangement that balances the needs of the individual, team, and organization.

GE Appliances is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

GE Appliances participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance or an accommodation to use our website or to apply, please send an e-mail to [e-mail]

GE Appliances, a Haier company, is more than a place to work. We imagine, design and build some of the world's best appliances. Our people strive to improve themselves, the company and the community—building challenging and rewarding careers along the way. We value diversity, teamwork, innovation and lean manufacturing. We work with some of the best people in the world who take pride in our products and thrive on challenges. More than a place to work, GE Appliances is a place of opportunity, a place to grow and a place to develop your career.