Automations and controls Engineer

Position Overview

Responsible for the conception, specification, design, implementation, and maintenance of automated systems and control processes to optimize the efficiency, quality, and performance of operations. This role requires working with multidisciplinary teams to develop, deploy, and document control systems that enhance productivity and automation, reduce scrap, and ensure safe operation of machinery.

What you'll do

 

System Design and Development

· Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand process requirements and objectives.

· Design and develop control systems and automation solutions that align with project goals.

· Prepare project specifications with justification, cost savings/spend, timeline, and resources.

· Manages and/or directs the work of third parties or integrators executing project-related assignments in-house and outside Hunter Douglas. Conduct FAT and SAT validations.

 

Programming and System Integration

· Write, test, and debug control logic programs using IEC61131-3 standards for PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), PACs (Programmable Automation Controllers), DCS (Distributed Control Systems), MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems.

· Advanced understanding of motion control schemes and safety system integration.

· Experience with programming Cobot (collaborative robots) and machine/operator integration.

· Develop HMI (Human Machine Interface) programs for comprehensive machine interactions (alarms, machine state, recipe selection/edit, user login, and security).

· Implement communication protocols for data exchange between different devices and systems (SAP/PQS MII Manufacturing Integration and Intelligence, MES, SCADA, Remote Access).

· Integrate and develop vision systems for validation and defect mapping/analysis.

· 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.

· Extensive experience with power distribution, electrical panel layout, High/Low voltage panel separation, and field wiring (up to 180VDC and 480VAC).

 

Testing and Validation

· Perform thorough testing of control systems to ensure accuracy, reliability, and safety.

· Conduct simulations and real-world testing to validate the system's performance under different operating conditions

 

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

· Identify and resolve highly technical issues and malfunctions in the automation and control systems.

· Provide timely support for Process/Fab Engineers and Maintenance departments.

· Ability to analyze data and system performance for process optimization

 

Documentation

· Create comprehensive documentation, including system design specifications, wiring diagrams & ECRs, programming comments, calibration procedures, flow charts, BOMs, and user manuals.

 

Safety and Compliance

· 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 HDMSC standards).

· Implement emergency stop and safe stop systems to performance levels according to risk assessments. Participate in the risk assessment process, including stop time calculations and safe distance calculations for guarding & presence-sensing devices.

 

Continuous Improvement

· Stay updated with emerging technologies and trends in automation and controls engineering, and balance with the currently used parts' commonality.

· Identify opportunities for process efficiency, cost savings, automation, and safety improvements.

· Provide cross-training to the A&C, process/fab engineering, and maintenance teams

 

 

Who you are

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics Engineering Degree, or equivalent, extensive work experience in place of a degree. Previous work experience (3-5 years) with electrical/mechanical control systems in a manufacturing environment is required.

 

An employee in this position, upon appointment, should have the equivalent of the following:

• Expert knowledge of motion control theory, process control, and instrumentation using various control systems (Omron Sysmac Studio/CX-One, AB, Beckhoff) and the IEC61131-3 languages.
• Solid knowledge of the NEC, ANSI B11, NFPA 70E, UL508, and Hunter Douglas machine building standards. Machine safety architecture.
• Solid knowledge of the principles of AC/DC electrical control circuit design (up to 480VAC), power distribution, distributed control systems, and panel layout.
• Solid knowledge of computer use and software such as Windows, ACAD Electrical, Google Suite, and MS Office.
• Solid knowledge of the principles of shop math.
• Solid knowledge of motor sizing of DC, servo, stepper, and vector motors.
• Solid knowledge of problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Solid knowledge of project management from conception to completion.
• Solid knowledge of the principles of pneumatics and hydraulics.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to work with cross-functional teams, vendors, and clients.
• Skill in working with, and knowledge of, the use of voltmeters, ohmmeters, and ammeters, oscilloscopes, and hand tools such as drills and wiring tools.
• Ability to understand and design electrical schematics and technical drawings.

INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTOR COMPETENCIES

• The Window Fashions Division Individual Contributor Competencies are abbreviated in this job description; refer to Individual Contributor Performance Appraisal to view the full version. An Individual Contributor at Hunter Douglas Window Fashions, Inc. displays these characteristics:
• Achievement Focused – Focuses on what is important and demonstrates a sense of urgency, successfully managing multiple priorities.
• Project and Task Management – Plans and implements projects or tasks with well-defined objectives and outcomes.
• Continuous Learning Mindset – Demonstrates a commitment for learning new skills and proactively strengthens current knowledge and skills.
• Critical Thinking – Anticipates events and potential problems before they arise.
• Decision Making – Initiates actionable and practical solutions when faced with challenges.
• Communication – Communicates in a tone and matter that demonstrates respect; and responds effectively to the views and opinions of others.
• Interpersonal Skills – Engenders a positive climate through the use of optimism, integrity and sincerity.
• Resilience/Adaptability – Maintains an optimistic outlook, responding constructively when presented with change.
• Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities – Demonstrates an in-depth knowledge of their own profession and essential functions of the job.
• Collaboration/Teamwork – Actively involves others in decision-making, planning, and problem-solving when appropriate.

 

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Body Movement

• Will frequently stand while installing control devices on production equipment.
• Will frequently walk within production area, from production equipment to shop area.
• Will frequently use hands to connect PLC wires; use hand tools to tighten screws; enter PLC programs on computer keyboard.
• Will frequently reach above head and at arm length to mount PLC devices or panel boxes to pieces of production equipment.
• Will frequently sit accessing computer keyboard to enter and work on the development of PLC programs.
• Will occasionally push and pull equipment electrical power segments using a fork lift or gantry hoist.
• Will occasionally climb a ten foot stair ladder or use a scissor lift at a height of 20 feet to examine and work on the topside of a piece of production equipment.
• Will occasionally bend/stoop at knees and waist while working on a piece of equipment where the control box is situated close to the ground.
• Will occasionally twist at elbow and shoulder arm while working on control boxes located in confined spaces on pieces of production equipment.

 

 

What's in it for you

• Annual base salary range: $75000.00- $101000.00
• Bonus target range: 10%-20%
• 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.

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