Senior Controls Design Engineer - Robotics

Job Description

#### Job Description

Step into a high-impact role where you'll lead the design and delivery of advanced robotic control systems for cutting-edge industrial automation projects. Working with a mix of PLCs, robots, HMIs, and safety systems, you'll take ownership from concept through commissioning, ensuring robust, reliable, and compliant solutions for a diverse customer base across Ohio.

About the Role:  

As a Senior Controls Design Engineer -- Robotics, you will be responsible for architecting, programming, and integrating complex control systems that tie together PLCs, industrial robots, HMIs/SCADA, and safety circuits. You will drive the technical direction of projects, translating customer requirements into detailed control designs and ensuring seamless integration on the plant floor. Your work will directly influence system performance, uptime, and operator safety across multiple automation platforms.

Key Responsibilities:

* Develop, program, and commission PLC-based control systems using Allen-Bradley and Siemens platforms for robotic and automated equipment.
* Program, integrate, and optimize industrial robots (e.g., Fanuc, ABB, KUKA) including motion paths, I/O mapping, and coordination with PLCs and safety systems.
* Design and configure HMI/SCADA screens and user interfaces, focusing on intuitive operation, diagnostics, and alarm management.
* Define and implement industrial networking and fieldbus architectures (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, DeviceNet) to connect PLCs, robots, drives, and peripheral devices.
* Design and validate machine and process safety systems in accordance with relevant standards, including risk assessments, safety circuit design, and safety PLC programming.
* Produce detailed control system documentation, including functional specifications, I/O lists, schematics, sequence of operations, and commissioning plans.
* Lead root cause analysis for control and automation issues, implementing permanent corrective actions and driving continuous improvement in system performance.
* Coordinate project activities with mechanical, electrical, and process engineering teams, managing schedules, technical deliverables, and on-site commissioning efforts.

Key Requirements:

* Proven experience in PLC programming and troubleshooting with Allen-Bradley (Logix family) and Siemens platforms in an industrial automation environment.
* Hands-on experience programming and integrating industrial robots (Fanuc, ABB, KUKA or similar) in production or manufacturing settings.
* Demonstrated capability in HMI/SCADA development and user interface design for operator stations and supervisory systems.
* Strong working knowledge of industrial networking and fieldbus protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Profinet, and DeviceNet.
* Practical experience designing and validating safety-related control systems in line with ISO 13849, IEC 61508, and OSHA requirements.
* Solid background in control system architecture, including hardware selection, panel layout, and system specification.
* Track record of leading or contributing to root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives on automated equipment.
* Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.

Desirable Skills:

* Experience with safety PLCs and safety-rated motion control systems.
* Exposure to vision systems, advanced motion control, or coordinated multi-robot cells.
* Familiarity with data collection, MES integration, or Industry 4.0/IIoT solutions.
* Experience working in automotive, packaging, material handling, or similar high-volume manufacturing environments.
* Prior background in contract or consulting roles, with the ability to quickly adapt to new customer standards and platforms.

Qualifications:

* Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline.
* Professional certifications in PLC/robot programming or functional safety (e.g., TÜV, CFSE/CFSP) preferred.
* Evidence of ongoing professional development in industrial automation, robotics, or safety systems is advantageous.

If you are a seasoned controls professional who thrives on complex automation challenges and hands-on project delivery, this role offers the opportunity to make an immediate impact---apply now to be considered.