Automation Controls Engineer

JOB TITLE: Automation Controls Engineer

LOCATION: Normal (training) & Bloomington, IL

SCHEDULE: Rotating 1st, 2nd & 3rd Shift

DURATION: 12-Month Contract

PAY: 52-57 USD per hour

Job Responsibilities:

In this role, you will own and support advanced automation, robotics, networking, and controls systems within a high-volume manufacturing environment. Key responsibilities include:

• Leading automation and controls initiatives, including:
  • Deploying, optimizing, and troubleshooting Rockwell Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk systems.
  • Managing Fanuc robotic programming, calibration, and troubleshooting.
  • Designing and maintaining industrial network architectures.
  • Developing and validating system recovery protocols to minimize production downtime.
• Partnering with Manufacturing Operations to optimize automated production systems and improve equipment reliability.
• Delivering hands-on technical coaching and mentoring to maintenance technicians and floor engineers.
• Supporting technical training initiatives by creating and delivering instructional content based on operational needs.
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives across automation, controls, and manufacturing processes.

Essential Duties and Job Functions:

• Own advanced automation, robotics, networking, and system recovery processes for manufacturing operations.
• Troubleshoot, modify, and optimize PLC logic using Rockwell Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk platforms.
• Configure, troubleshoot, and maintain Fanuc robotic systems and automated production equipment.
• Design, validate, and support industrial networking infrastructure for manufacturing systems.
• Develop, document, and test disaster recovery procedures for automated equipment.
• Analyze electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and controls systems to identify and resolve production issues.
• Provide floor-level technical support and guidance during equipment failures and system recovery events.
• Deliver instructor-led technical training and mentoring using established SOPs and engineering documentation.
• Support development of technical training materials and knowledge transfer initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering and manufacturing teams to improve system performance and reliability.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation and ensure adherence to industry best practices and safety standards.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Advanced knowledge of Rockwell Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk platforms.
• Strong experience with Fanuc robotics programming and troubleshooting.
• In-depth understanding of industrial automation, PLCs, controls systems, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience designing and supporting industrial Ethernet/networking systems.
• Strong troubleshooting skills across electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and control systems.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and mentoring abilities.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within cross-functional teams.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to perform effectively in fast-paced, high-pressure manufacturing environments.
• Understanding of industrial safety standards, including NFPA 70E.
• Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS) and instructional design methodologies such as the ADDIE model is a plus.

Education & Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on controls engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Extensive experience with Rockwell Studio 5000, FactoryTalk, and Fanuc robotics.
• Proven experience providing technical training, mentoring, or adult education in an industrial setting.
• Experience with system integration, automation, and manufacturing controls.
• Electrical Certification or Controls Engineering credentials preferred.
• Industrial maintenance or advanced manufacturing systems integration experience preferred.
• Experience with hydraulic and pneumatic systems is a plus.

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