Sr. Controls Specialist

dfa; Missouri; On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

DFA is seeking an experienced engineer to provide technical leadership for process controls and electrical systems at our Missouri manufacturing sites. You will design, implement, and maintain control strategies, electrical schematics, and associated documentation while coordinating multi-plant projects.

The role requires 5–8 years in the food industry, strong HMI/PLC expertise (ControlLogix, Rockwell), and the ability to manage budgets and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in engineering (preferably electrical) or related field.
• 5–8 years of multi-disciplinary technical experience in the food industry (preferably dairy).
• Experience with HMI and ControlLogix programming, one-line and electrical schematic design.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership on controls, electrical design, construction and maintenance.
• Develop and maintain process controls specifications and equipment parameters.
• Manage project implementation of engineering plans and budgets.
• Maintain capital budgets and equipment schedules for multiple plants.
• Communicate project status, priorities, and budgets to DFA personnel.
• Serve as technical authority on process controls and electrical engineering.
• Identify cost-saving technical solutions and drive improvements.

Skills

Process controls

Electrical design

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Planning

Vendor management

Team leadership

Problem solving

Education

Undergraduate engineering degree (preferably electrical)

Tools

HMI FT View

ControlLogix

Electrical schematics

Rockwell automation systems

VFD control

SLC500

Job description

General Purpose:

Provide technical support and maintenance as directed in respect to process control management systems, related networks, and related technologies. Support the corporate automation network and to maintain communications, network, and software that is required for day-to-day manufacturing operations.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide plant leadership with technical expertise on all aspects of controls, electrical design, construction, and maintenance matters. Investigate and report on problems and recommend solutions
• Develop, organize, and maintain process controls and electrical engineering specifications, standards, and process equipment operational parameters to ensure process stability while maximizing manufacturing process efficiencies
• Develop and manage implementation of overall process control and electrical engineering plans and projects for assigned location. Manage multiple projects, vendors, and contractors as related to implementation of engineering plans
• Maintain capital budget and equipment schedules in accordance with plant construction, expansion, or new product objectives
• Communicate with DFA personnel on projects, priorities, timetables, and budgets
• Serve as technical authority on process controls and electrical engineering matters. Approve technical specifications on drawings and literature for process controls and electrical engineering
• Reduce facility and manufacturing operating costs by providing best option technical solutions and utilizing best method analyses towards improving internal systems
• Remain current knowledge of engineering trends and developments for application. Recommend changes in policies and procedures as appropriate
• Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

Minimum Requirements:

Education and Experience

• Undergraduate degree in engineering (preferably electrical engineering) or related curriculum (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
• 5 to 8 years of multi-disciplinary technical experience in food industry (preferably dairy), including plant construction and/or expansion or related field
• Experience with HMI and ControlLogix Programming, one-line and electrical schematic design, electrical equipment, or other relevant technologies (i.e., pump and VFD control, configuration, and instrumentation)
• Certification and/or License – may be required during course of employment

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of architectural, mechanical, electrical and process engineering with emphasis on process controls
• Knowledge on process control and control network, electrical schematics, HMI programming (FT View), advanced PLC programming, Rockwell automation systems, electrical equipment including pump/VSD maintenance, legacy automation, VFD, SLIC500, and instrumentation
• Knowledge of Federal Drug Administration (FDA), GMP, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) policies and regulations
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
• Knowledge of regulatory codes and translating into blueprints and schematics
• Knowledge of project management processes, techniques, and tools
• Skill in planning, organization, analysis, and leadership
• Skill in contractor and vendor management
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Able to think ahead and plan for one to three year timeframe
• Able to complete problem analysis and resolution for both strategic and functional levels
• Able to manage projects for multiple plants simultaneously
• Able to lead people and get results through others
• Able to communicate with diverse range of individuals to ensure needs and requirements are met
• Able to think creatively and develop short- and long-range innovation
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

Travel:

5%-15% (1-3 times per year)

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans