Controls Engineer - Custom Automation

ATC Automation is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join our team in Cookeville, TN. In this role, you will design, program, troubleshoot, and commission control systems for custom automation equipment. You will work on projects from concept through completion, helping transform customer requirements into innovative, reliable, and high-performing automated systems.

The ideal candidate brings strong controls and automation experience, along with a passion for solving complex technical problems. You will work closely with mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and project engineering teams to develop complete automation solutions using PLCs, HMIs, robotics, motion control, vision systems, and industrial networks.

Meet ATC Automation

Since 1977, ATC Automation has been redefining what's possible in custom automation. From concept to commissioning, we partner with leading brands across the globe to design and deliver custom machinery that drives efficiency, precision, and long-term performance. Our automation expertise spans critical industries that shape the way we live and move-Life Science, Transportation, Consumer Products, and General Industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, program, and integrate controls systems for custom automation equipment.
• Develop and modify PLC, HMI, motion control, robotics, and other automation software.
• Create and review electrical schematics and controls documentation.
• Integrate electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, robotic, vision, and controls systems.
• Troubleshoot and debug equipment during assembly, startup, testing, and commissioning.
• Participate in machine startup, system testing, and customer acceptance activities.
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial communication networks and control system hardware.
• Develop machine sequences, control logic, alarms, operator interfaces, and system functionality.
• Support the development and implementation of machine safety systems.
• Work closely with Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing, and Project Management throughout the life of a project.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting assistance during machine installation and startup.
• Research and evaluate new controls technologies, components, and programming methods.
• Maintain project schedules and priorities while supporting multiple automation projects.
• Travel periodically as required to support equipment installation, startup, customer meetings, and project activities.

Required Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related engineering field.
• Experience designing, programming, or troubleshooting PLC-based control systems.
• Experience with electrical controls and automated machinery.
• Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and control system documentation.
• Strong understanding of industrial automation, machine controls, and electrical systems.
• Experience troubleshooting complex automation equipment and identifying root causes.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented engineering environment.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while meeting project deadlines.

Experience with Allen-Bradley/Studio 5000, Siemens/TIA Portal, HMI programming, robotics, servo systems, VFDs, machine vision, industrial networking, safety systems, and machine commissioning is highly valued.

Interpersonal Skills

• Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively with engineers, technicians, manufacturing personnel, project managers, and customers.
• Ability to clearly explain technical information and troubleshooting solutions.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a hands-on approach to automation challenges.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively to a cross-functional team.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing reliable, high-quality automation systems.
• Ability to adapt to changing project requirements and priorities.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and comprehensive compensation package.
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, and 401(k).
• Opportunities for professional development, technical training, career growth, and advancement.
• A collaborative engineering environment focused on innovation, technology, and problem-solving.
• The opportunity to work on unique, custom-designed automation systems across a variety of industries.
• The opportunity to work with a broad range of PLC, robotics, motion control, vision, and automation technologies.

Physical Demands

• Stand, walk, push, pull, reach overhead, and bend to floor.·
• Exert 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally.·
• Exert 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently.
• Exert up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
• VISUAL ACUITY: Near acuity with or without accommodation.·
• HEARING Ability: Ability to monitor machine sounds to identify and diagnose.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position. This job description is subject to change but will remain in effect until superseded or canceled in writing by Human Resources.

ATC Automation is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

ATC Automation is the Automation segment of TASI Group. The TASI Group of Companies is comprised of four technologically advanced Strategic Business Segments commonly linked by a disciplined focus on Product Integrity, Package Integrity, and Automation. Each TASI company delivers world-class products and services, focusing on our global customer needs in diverse market segments. TASI has served several thousand global customers over the years and enjoys a very high rate of repeat customers, many of which are Blue Chip Global Companies. Major Markets include: Automotive, Medical Devices, Life Science, Pharmaceutical, Packaging, Oil & Gas, Food & Beverage, Consumer Goods and General Industrial Equipment.