Automation & Controls Engineer I

Position Overview

The position is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing intermediate level automated systems and solutions to support new manufacturing or operational initiatives across NA plants. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams—including engineering, production, and IT—to identify automation opportunities, define technical requirements, and ensure seamless integration of equipment and controls into new processes or production lines. Key responsibilities with support from senior A&C engineers include selecting appropriate technologies, programming PLCs or robotics, managing project timelines, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring systems meet safety, efficiency, and quality standards. The engineer also plays a critical role in validating performance, supporting startup activities, and driving continuous improvement from concept to handover. Intermediate analytical, technical, and project management skills are essential, as well as the ability to adapt to evolving technologies and dynamic project environments.

What you'll do

System Design and Development:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Operations, Engineering, CI, Maintenance, IT developers, and Quality) to execute automation projects.
• Design intermediate level control systems and automation solutions that align with company standardization, project goals, and customer requirements.
• Collaborate with software IT teams to ensure compatibility and future expansion of machine connectivity & data acquisition activities.
• Create intermediate level project specifications that include cost savings, capex, RFQ, timeline, and resource requirements to define clear scope and transparency of projects. Supported by senior A&C engineers when required.
• Intermediate level management and/or supervision of the work of third parties or integrators executing project-related assignments in-house and outside Hunter Douglas. Conduct FAT and SAT validations.
• Train key plant personnel in automation technologies being deployed to ensure successful adoption and achieve improvement objectives.

Programming and System Integration:

• Write, test, and debug control logic programs using IEC61131-3 and HDNA standards for PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), DCS (Distributed Control Systems), MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems.
• Basic-Intermediate knowledge of motion control schemes (PTP and Coordinated motion) and Safety PLC system integration.
• Develop HMI (Human Machine Interface) programs for comprehensive machine interactions (alarms, machine state, recipe selection/edit, user login, and security).
• Basic knowledge of communication protocols for data exchange between different devices and systems (SAP/PQS MII Manufacturing Integration and Intelligence, MES, OEE, SCADA, Remote Access).
• Basic knowledge of vision system integration and development for validation and defect mapping/detection.
• Integrate various control devices, sensors, actuators, and instrumentation with PID controls into a cohesive automation system using various network protocols: ECAT, EPL, EIP, DeviceNet, CANOpen, and Serial.
• Intermediate knowledge of power distribution, electrical panel layout, High/Low voltage panel separation, and field wiring (up to 180VDC and 480VAC).
• Intermediate level experience with Omron Sysmac Studio, Allen Bradley Studio 5000, and Beckhoff TC3 (desired).
• Desired experience with programming Cobot (collaborative robots) and machine/operator integration.

Testing and Validation:

• Perform thorough testing of control systems to ensure accuracy, reliability, and safety.
• Conduct development simulations and real-world testing to validate the system's performance under different operating conditions
• Validate FAT and SAT testing checklists

Troubleshooting and Maintenance:

• Provide timely support to identify and resolve highly technical issues and malfunctions in the automation and control systems when escalated from maintenance or engineering, and share troubleshooting knowledge
• Intermediate ability to analyze data and system performance for process optimization.

Documentation:

• Intermediate knowledge of creating comprehensive documentation, including project specifications, wiring diagrams & ECRs, programming comments, calibration procedures, flow charts, BOMs, and user manuals.

Safety and Compliance:

• Basic knowledge to ensure that all control systems adhere to industry standards, regulations, risk assessments, and safety protocols (NEC, OSHA, ANSI B11.19/20, NFPA 70E, SCCR, UL508, EN954-1, and HDMS standards).
• Collaborate with A&C Engineers and Techs to implement and validate automation safety systems to performance levels according to risk assessments. Participate in the risk assessment process, including stop time calculations and safe distance calculations for guard doors & presence-sensing devices.

Continuous Improvement:

• Stay updated with emerging technologies and trends in automation and controls engineering, and balance with the currently used standardized parts.
• Identify opportunities for process efficiency, cost savings, automation, and safety improvements.
• Provide basic training to the A&C team, process engineering, and maintenance teams

Who you are

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Automation Engineering or equivalent.
• At least 1+ yrs of work experience in a manufacturing environment as a controls engineer or equivalent.

Other requirements:

• Effectively lead small to medium scale (size, scope, and complexity) projects
• Coordinate multiple small to medium scale projects concurrently
• Intermediate analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Intermediate oral and written communication skills and the ability to present at meetings effectively
• Shows strong teamwork, is self-directed, results oriented, inclusive, unselfish, and supportive.
• Uses project management tools at an intermediate level to organize and prioritize tasks within a project
• Travel up to 25% of time to customer sites, manufacturing facilities, and vendor locations (domestic and international)

What's in it for you?

• Annual base salary range: $78,000 - $97,000
• Bonus target range: 10 -15%
• Generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability
• A company culture that prioritizes internal development and professional growth
• Time off with pay
• 401(k) plan with a degree of employer matching
• Paid parental leave
• Wellness programs and product discounts

Please note, all offers presented to candidates are carefully crafted to ensure market competitiveness, equity, and reflect the individual candidate’s education, experience, skills and potential.
Hunter Douglas is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with applicable employment laws. EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled are encouraged to apply.

[#LI-RS2]

[#LI-office]