Senior Controls Engineer - Automation & PLC Expert

Sonoco Products Company; Hartselle (AL); On-site; USD 122,000 - 156,000; Full time

Job summary

Sonoco Products Company is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer for the Reels Division Automation Group in the United States. The role leads electrical and controls design for high-volume manufacturing technologies across Sonoco's Reels facilities.

The engineer will design with EPLAN, develop PLCs in Studio5000, create intuitive HMIs, and integrate alarms. Responsibilities include project leadership, collaboration with Operations and Maintenance, and driving continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• BS in Electrical/Controls Engineering or equivalent experience.
• 8–10 years in controls and automation design.
• Solid knowledge of electrical control system design software (EPLAN preferred).
• Experience leading automation projects and coordinating cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Design electrical and control systems for custom automation solutions using EPLAN.
• Develop and enforce process standards emphasizing safety and reliability.
• Lead change management, IP security, and documentation (drawings, code, concepts).
• Develop PLC programs in Studio5000 and HMIs.
• Provide field and shop support during fabrication, testing, and installation.
• Lead projects with internal teams and external vendors to meet scope, budget, and schedule.
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, and Supply Management to ensure project success.

Skills

EPLAN

Studio 5000

HMI programming

PLC programming

Robotics

Vision systems

SCADA

Safety standards

Team leadership

Education

BS in Electrical/Controls Engineering

Tools

EPLAN Pro Panel

Studio 5000

MAPLE Systems HMIs

Ignition SCADA

Job description

Sonoco Products Company is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer for the Reels Division Automation Group in the United States. The role leads electrical and controls design for high-volume manufacturing technologies across Sonoco's Reels facilities.

The engineer will design with EPLAN, develop PLCs in Studio5000, create intuitive HMIs, and integrate alarms. Responsibilities include project leadership, collaboration with Operations and Maintenance, and driving continuous improvement.