Controls Engineer

The Controls Engineer will be responsible for designing, programming, and commissioning control and automation systems. Requires work with Forward's production systems and personnel to ensure on-time completion of projects. The applicant will assist with laboratory level work (prototyping/new technology vetting), troubleshooting and concept development with the production group, and in general you will work with a wide variety of internal resources to ensure projects stay on-time and within budget.

Under minimum supervision, applicant will troubleshoot various automated production equipment. You will build and maintain strong relationships with customers across many different industries and continue to learn the intricacies of plastic welding, leak/burst testing, and automation equipment.

The Controls Engineer will have strong experience with programmable controllers, robotics, vision systems, HMIs, control system design, and have hands-on troubleshooting experience.  A go-getter type personality with a strong desire to succeed will help the applicant thrive and grow in this position. Forward is also open to candidates with less experience that have the willingness and drive to learn new things.

Common tasks for this position include:

1)     Program and troubleshoot automated equipment using Rockwell Automation software or other PLC/HMI software (other brands used include Exor (Codesys) and Horner, along with others as our customers require

2)     Develop control panel and control system schematics utilizing safety circuits, PLCs, VFDs, servo drives, robotics, automation networks, HMIs, etc. all designed in AutoCAD Electrical software

3)     Create and maintain BOMs and engineering changes associated with projects and resolve job specification differences

4)     Review specifications and standard practices inclusive of the internal hardwired and logic standards, general specifications, and scope of work

5)     Control system upgrades of existing equipment and integration of new/existing equipment

6)     Ensure work is completed in accordance with relevant codes and with proper documentation

7)     Participate in continuous improvement activities to improve processes, efficiency, quality, and service

8)     Work closely with vendors in identifying appropriate equipment necessary for the project

9)     Work with the Forward Tech team in general to maintain project schedules, standards, and budgets

10)  Provide assistance to other functional organizations (manufacturing, assembly, customer service, sales) throughout the life of a project

Forward Tech is a fast paced environment with a wide variety of different projects that come through our plant. If you like to be challenged and enjoy working on new things, this is a good spot for you. Highly competitive wages with a family feel environment. Travel is desired for this position, up to 10-15% depending on the year; including international travel if that is something that you enjoy.