Controls Engineer

Lead and support all plant automation, controls, instrumentation, electrical systems, and operational technology (OT) infrastructure to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient manufacturing operations. This position is responsible for maintaining and improving process control systems, industrial networks, servers, and automation technologies while supporting capital projects, continuous improvement initiatives, and long-term technology roadmaps.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage, maintain, and continuously improve plant automation, instrumentation, electrical, and process control systems.
• Develop and oversee support structures for operational technology (OT), including automation controls, industrial networks, communication systems, and related infrastructure.
• Provide technical leadership to improve process efficiency, product quality, utility performance, energy management, and overall operational effectiveness.
• Support the design, maintenance, and optimization of plant control networks, servers, and associated systems.
• Investigate technical issues, develop corrective actions, and recommend solutions that improve reliability and performance.
• Lead maintenance programs for electrical distribution systems, utility systems, instrumentation, process controls, and production equipment.
• Manage capital projects from planning through execution, ensuring projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget.
• Develop and implement long-term automation and control system strategies, including network, server, and infrastructure upgrades.
• Establish and maintain plant standards and specifications for control systems, automation platforms, and network architecture.
• Monitor emerging technologies and engineering trends and recommend improvements to plant operations and infrastructure.
• Coordinate internal resources, contractors, and vendors to successfully complete automation and control system projects.
• Develop and deliver technical training programs to strengthen operational and maintenance team capabilities.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and development for technical staff and contractors.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, sanitation, environmental, and workplace safety standards.
• Support GMP, HACCP, SQF, OSHA, and other regulatory compliance initiatives.
• Promote a culture of safety, continuous improvement, accountability, and operational excellence.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

• High School Diploma or GED with 10+ years of manufacturing experience, including at least 4 years of supervisory responsibility; OR
• Technical training in electrical, automation, controls, or related disciplines combined with manufacturing leadership experience; OR
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Technology, or a related field with at least 4 years of manufacturing experience, including supervisory responsibility.

Additional qualifications include:

• Experience managing capital projects and capital budgets.
• Experience designing, deploying, and maintaining industrial control networks and OT infrastructure.
• Experience with network administration, server management, VPN configuration, network security, and IP address management.
• Food, beverage, dairy, pharmaceutical, or other regulated manufacturing experience strongly preferred