Automations Controls Engineer
Paris, TX

Our client is a 4th generation family-owned food and beverage manufacturer. They are a national leader in coffee beans, and they have sugar and distillery businesses as well with plant operations across the country and internationally. 

They have an immediate need for an Automations Controls Engineer to join their growing team in their new facility in Paris, Texas.

In this role you will be responsible for developing and maintaining control systems, ensuring efficient and reliable operation. Additionally, your role will involve designing, implementing, and optimizing automations solutions for their production processes, particularly pertaining to their packaging.

Responsibilities include:

• Control System Design: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including process engineers, electrical engineers, and production personnel, to design automation control systems that meet safety, efficiency, and functionality requirements in the food and beverage manufacturing environment.
• PLC Programming: Develop, modify, and debug programmable logic controller (PLC) programs to control production machinery and processes. Utilize industry-standard programming languages (such as ladder logic, structured text) and platforms (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens) for control system development.
• HMI Development: Design and implement human-machine interfaces (HMIs) to provide intuitive control and visualization of production processes. Develop user-friendly interfaces for operators and maintenance personnel to monitor, troubleshoot, and optimize system performance.
• System Integration: Integrate control systems with various components, including sensors, actuators, motor drives, and data acquisition systems, ensuring seamless communication and data exchange. Interface with MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems) and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems as required.
• Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Identify and resolve technical issues related to control systems, PLC programs, and associated hardware. Perform regular maintenance and updates to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
• Documentation: Create and maintain detailed technical documentation, including AutoCAD wiring diagrams, operating procedures, and troubleshooting guides. This documentation will facilitate system understanding, troubleshooting, and future modifications.
• Testing and Validation: Develop testing plans and conduct thorough testing to validate the functionality, reliability, and safety of control systems. Perform integration testing of PLC programs with other subsystems to ensure proper system operation.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to optimize processes, reduce downtime, and enhance system performance. Propose and implement improvements, such as software upgrades, process modifications, or equipment enhancements.
• Compliance and Safety: Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards, codes, regulations, and safety protocols within the food and beverage manufacturing industry. Implement safety features and interlocks within control systems to mitigate risks and protect personnel and equipment.
• Training and Support: Provide training and support to production personnel, maintenance technicians, and other stakeholders to enable efficient operation and troubleshooting of control systems.

Qualifications:

• Degree in electrical Controls & engineering, Automation, or a related field. Relevant certifications and job-related fields are a plus.
• 5 years of experience working as an Automation Control Engineer within the food and beverage manufacturing industry, with a strong focus on control system design and implementation.
• Proficiency in PLC programming languages (such as ladder logic, structured text) and experience with industry-standard platforms (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens).
• Familiarity with HMI development tools and practices, enabling the creation of user-friendly interfaces.
• Strong understanding of electrical controls, automation systems, industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Profinet), and instrumentation within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex systems and provide effective solutions.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations (e.g., FDA, HACCP) and experience implementing control systems within a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen) is advantageous.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, quality, and compliance within the food and beverage manufacturing industry.
• Willingness to adapt to changing project requirements and learn new technologies as needed.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

This is a growth opportunity and a role where you will have influence. Bi-lingual Spanish, is a nice plus but not required.

This is a full-time salaried position with benefits. Benefits include medical, dental, 401k, PTO plus company holidays.