Automation/Controls Engineer II

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview

The Automation/Controls Engineer is a key technical leader within the Phenix City manufacturing plant, responsible for optimizing electrical systems, automation controls, and continuous improvement projects across a 24/5–24/7 mineral-wool insulation operation. This individual ensures safe, reliable, and efficient plant performance through expert troubleshooting, systems design, and process innovation.

Primary Responsibilities

• Electrical Systems & Controls
• • Troubleshoot, maintain, and improve PLC, HMI, VFD, and servo control systems.
  • Program and support Allen-Bradley PLCs and HMIs , ensuring reliable communication across enterprise and control networks.
  • Lead the electrical/control design and implementation for major capital or process projects (>$1M).
  • Maintain compliance with NFPA 70E electrical safety standards , arc-flash protection, and OSHA requirements.
  • Document all control logic, wiring schematics, and network layouts; update legacy systems documentation.
  • Experience with Fanuc Robotics, Cognex Vision, Wonderware, and Genetec systems .
  • Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, ISO systems, SAP , or similar structured operating systems.
  • Experience using AutoCAD or Visio for electrical design and documentation.
  • Understanding of mechanical systems and integration within automated processes.
  • Strong leadership and collaboration skills, capable of influencing cross-functional teams.
• Automation & Optimization
• • Identify and implement automation opportunities that improve safety, quality, and productivity.
  • Integrate and standardize robotic platforms ( Fanuc, ABB ) and vision systems ( Cognex ) to reduce manual intervention.
  • Collaborate on VFD, servo, and Wonderware SCADA projects to improve efficiency and data visibility.
  • Drive simplification and standardization of components, reducing spare-parts complexity and downtime risk.
• Project Management
• • Manage multiple automation and electrical projects simultaneously—scope, design, commissioning, and documentation.
  • Coordinate with engineering, maintenance, IT, and corporate teams to meet project milestones and plant objectives.
  • Ensure all new installations align with JM standards and avoid equipment obsolescence.
• Operational Support & Leadership
• • Serve as a plant technical leader, supporting daily operations and mentoring technicians on troubleshooting and preventive maintenance.
  • Participate in daily management and cross-functional meetings to address downtime and improvement opportunities.
  • Support environmental, health, and safety compliance initiatives across the facility.
  • Foster a culture of teamwork, safety, and open communication.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology .
• Minimum 3 years of experience in controls or automation engineering in a continuous or discrete manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in Allen-Bradley PLC and HMI programming and network integration.
• Experience with VFDs, servos, and robotic systems (Fanuc/ABB) .
• Working knowledge of NFPA 70E , electrical safety, and arc-flash hazard standards.
• Proven ability to manage complex automation projects and deliver results independently.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Key Competencies

• Technical mastery in electrical/automation systems.
• Strategic thinker with hands-on problem-solving ability.
• Strong project management and documentation discipline.
• Continuous improvement mindset and safety-first orientation.
• Effective communicator with a collaborative, proactive approach.

Schedule: Primarily Monday–Friday (6:30 AM – 4:30 PM) with occasional off-shift or weekend work for projects