Senior/Staff Controls Engineer

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior/Staff PLC/Controls Engineer to take ownership of automation and control systems for our Pack & Module production line at Gotion’s Manteno facility. This role will lead troubleshooting, stabilization, and optimization of production equipment, while also mentoring existing Controls Engineers and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive throughput and yield improvements. This is a hands-on role requiring strong problem-solving skills, deep PLC expertise, and proven manufacturing floor experience.

Responsibilities

Lead troubleshooting and optimization of PLC, HMI, motion control, and industrial networking systems across the production line; Diagnose chronic automation issues impacting throughput, yield, and process stability; develop and execute permanent corrective actions; Reprogram, tune, and standardize PLC logic (primarily Siemens S7-1500 / TIA Portal, plus some Omron); Improve and maintain equipment documentation, parameter settings, software version control, and backup libraries; Collaborate with Process, Quality, and Maintenance teams to drive continuous improvement; Lead controls-related Root Cause Analysis (RCA), FMEA, DOE activities; Provide technical leadership and knowledge transfer to internal Controls Engineers and Technicians; coach and elevate team capability; Support new equipment integration, commissioning, and upgrades

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Automation/Mechatronics Engineering or equivalent experience; 8+ years of PLC/Controls experience in a manufacturing environment (assembly / automated production / automotive / battery industry preferred); Expert-level Siemens PLC programming (TIA Portal / S7-1500); Experience with industrial communication protocols (Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus); Strong troubleshooting and electrical diagnostic ability; able to solve system-level issues independently; Able to work onsite full-time in a fast-paced production environment

Nice to have

Experience with Omron PLC; Robotics and machine vision integration experience; Experience stabilizing production lines during ramp-up

Benefits

Competitive compensation and benefits package; Opportunity to lead automation strategy during rapid scale-up; Eligibility for bonus and benefits