Dexter is the premier manufacturer and supplier of axles, suspension, brakes, doors, venting products, trailer parts, accessories, and towing components serving the commercial trailer, RV, heavy-duty, marine, agriculture, and manufactured housing markets has an opportunity for a Controls Engineer at our manufacturing engineering facility located in Elkhart, IN.
Headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana, Dexter has manufacturing and distribution locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. Employing state-of-the-art robotics, precision welding equipment, and automated machining processes, Dexter has achieved many years of success through a commitment to the principles of superior quality, continuous improvement, and unparalleled customer service.
For more information about our company, access Dexter's web site at www.dextergroup.com.
Controls & Robotics Engineer (5+ Years Experience)
- Commission, program, and troubleshoot industrial robotic systems with a focus on welding applications
- Configure and deploy PLC-based control systems, primarily using Rockwell Automation RSLogix 5000 / Studio 5000
- Integrate robotic systems (e.g., Fanuc, ABB, Yaskawa) with PLCs, HMIs, and peripheral equipment
- Perform system bring-up, debug I/O, and validate full machine functionality during commissioning
- Develop, modify, and optimize ladder logic, structured text, and function block programs
- Support weld process setup including torch configuration, seam tracking, and weld parameter tuning
- Diagnose and resolve electrical, controls, and robotic faults in real-time production environments
- Interpret electrical schematics, panel layouts, and mechanical drawings for system troubleshooting
- Conduct factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT)
- Collaborate with engineering teams to implement design changes and continuous improvements
- Provide on-site startup support and customer training for operators and maintenance personnel
- Ensure compliance with safety standards, including lockout/tagout and machine safety circuits
- Maintain detailed documentation including redlines, backups, and commissioning reports
- Travel to customer sites for installation, startup, and support as required
- Program, calibrate, and maintain DC electric torque tools, including parameter setup, tightening strategy configuration, and communication with PLC-based control systems
Project Management
- Participating in cross functional design reviews to establish standard and custom product designs for new product launches.
- Developing and communicating manufacturing standards for new product launches, project initiatives, and efficiency improvements to all departments.
- Reviewing and approving Engineering prints and specifications for optimum manufacturability, cost, tooling, and process structure.
- Partnering with the Product Design Team to resolve all engineering and design related problems as well as providing manufacturing input required for cost-effective designs.
Communication Skills
- Possess strong team, leadership, and interpersonal skills enabling you to work with the full range of employees at the manufacturing site.
- Ability to organize data into presentations for the team members and management.
Education
- Preferred but not required bachelor’s degree in engineering, or comparable discipline and at least 5+ years related work experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Electrical / Mechanical / Automation Engineering
Electrical / Mechanical Engineering Technology, or Equivalent
- Professional Certifications: Fanuc, Allen Bradley
Preferred / Plus Qualifications
- Experience with Fanuc ROBOGUIDE for offline programming and simulation
- Proficiency in AutoCAD for reviewing and modifying electrical schematics and layouts
- Experience with welding power sources and integration (e.g., Lincoln, Miller)
- Familiarity with advanced weld tracking systems (e.g., Through-Arc Seam Tracking - TAST)
- Knowledge of industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, ProfiNet)
- Statistical analysis and software (Cpk & Ppk)
- Ignition SCADA Software for Process Control and Data Management
We care for our people. Here are some of our great, comprehensive Benefits:
- Dexter offers a competitive wage
- Full benefits package including Health, Dental, Vision, Life, STD, LTD, FSA, HSA
- 3% profit sharing in our Safe Harbor program
- 401(k) Plan with company contributions
- Opportunities for internal career development and growth
Apply now to join an industry leader and make a difference in what we do for the customers we serve!
Equal Opportunity Employer
Offers of employment are contingent upon successfully passing a background check and drug screen. Dexter Axle Company is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are considered for positions without discrimination based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, veteran status, citizenship status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.
