PLC Controls Engineer in Halifax, North Carolina - #71590 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 71590

PLC Controls Engineer
Our client is seeking a skilled PLC Controls Engineer who thrives in a hands-on manufacturing environment and enjoys solving complex automation challenges. This role is ideal for a technically strong professional who combines troubleshooting expertise, sound engineering judgment, and a continuous improvement mindset. The successful candidate will be comfortable working independently while collaborating across maintenance, operations, vendors, and IT partners.

This role is onsite in Halifax, North Carolina.

PLC Controls Engineer Responsibilities

• Design, program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC and drive systems supporting plant operations.
• Modify and optimize control programs to improve equipment reliability, efficiency, and performance.
• Develop, assemble, and integrate control panels or cabinets for new and existing equipment.
• Partner with equipment vendors, operations, and maintenance teams to implement automation solutions.
• Lead or support migration and modernization efforts for control platforms and system architecture.
• Create diagnostic logic, fault detection routines, and alarm strategies to streamline troubleshooting.
• Establish and maintain standards for controller access, backups, and system recovery procedures.
• Support motion control systems, variable frequency drives, and industrial communication networks.
• Interpret and work from electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and process instrumentation documentation.
• Provide technical guidance and training to maintenance personnel on controls and electronic systems.
• Coordinate with internal technology teams to ensure system connectivity and reliability.
• Maintain required safety awareness and adhere to all applicable operational and regulatory standards.
• Contribute to broader engineering or automation initiatives as business needs evolve.

PLC Controls Engineer Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience working with PLCs and industrial automation systems in a manufacturing setting.
• Strong experience with Rockwell / Allen-Bradley platforms and associated programming software.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot, modify, and optimize automated control systems.
• Experience supporting variable frequency drives, motion control, and industrial networks.
• Working knowledge of Ethernet-based communication and industrial control protocols.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and process documentation.
• Familiarity with process controls, interlocks, safety systems, and relay logic.
• Basic understanding of industrial networking concepts and system integration.
• Proficiency with standard business software tools for documentation and communication.
• Technical, trade, or engineering education in automation, electrical systems, or a related discipline preferred.
• Exposure to SCADA, data collection systems, or reporting platforms is beneficial.

Salary: $77K-$92K/year + Bonus. (DOE)

Benefits
Benefits are available to eligible full-time employees and include coverage for medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long term disability, and matching 401k.

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