Overview
We are seeking a mid to senior level Controls Systems Engineer to take ownership of automation systems in a high-demand polymer fiber extrusion facility. This role is heavily focused on minimizing downtime, rapidly troubleshooting production issues, and driving reliability improvements across all control systems.
Responsibilities
- Lead repid diagnosis and resolution of automation and electrical issues impacting production
- Take ownership of chronic downtime issues and implement long-term corrective solutions
- Provide on-call support for critical system failures, including nights and weekends as needed
- Work directly on production lines to restore operation urgency
- Maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize: PLC systems (Siemens preferred), HMI systems, Variable frequency drives (VFDs), heavily Siemens-based, and industrial controllers and instrumentation
- Continuously improve system reliability, stability, and performance
- Program, modify, and debug PLC and HMI systems for existing and new equipment
- Develop control strategies to improve uptime, efficiency, and operator usability
- Standardize programming practices where applicable
- Design and build custom control cabinets for new and upgraded systems
- Select components, layout panels, and ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards
- Support installation, wiring, and commissioning efforts
- Support and lead controls scope on new equipment installations and system upgrades
- Commission new lines, drives, and automation systems
- Ensure smooth integration into existing operations with minimal disruption
- Perform hands-on work in an industrial manufacturing environment
- Work in conditions typical of a polymer fiber extrusion facility (heat, dust, continuous operation)
- Must be comfortable working on energized systems, troubleshooting in real time, and "getting dirty"
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 5+ years of hands-on controls/automation experience in an industrial/manufacturing environment
- Strong experience with PLC programming (Siemens strongly preferred), HMI development and troubleshooting, Siemens drives (critical requirement), and electrical schematics and panel design
- Experience with high-speed or continuous process manufacturing preferred
- Proven track record of reducing downtime and improving equipment reliability
- Strong troubleshooting skills under pressure
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Willingness to be on-call and respond to plant issues outside of normal hours
- Hands-on mindset– not purely a desk-based engineering role
- Effective communication with maintenance and operations teams
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Referral program
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Are you comfortable with being on-call and available regarding plant issues and production needs?
Education:
Experience:
- Controls/Automation: 5 years (Required)
- Siemens drives: 1 year (Required)
- Troubleshooting: 1 year (Required)
- Diagnostics: 1 year (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Johnson City, TN 37604 (Required)
Work Location: In person
