Engineer - Controls/Automation

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SUMMARY:

We are seeking a seasoned Controls Engineer to play a pivotal role in enhancing operational reliability and efficiency across our twelve Westlake Royal Building Products plants. This engineer will also lead and execute new automation projects throughout the various facilities. As the division-wide Controls SME, you will lead the charge in advancing Industry 4.0 initiatives, ensuring seamless connectivity and bolstering reliability through meticulous PLC program documentation and controls.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

May include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Spearhead the improvement of plant reliability by elevating PLC programming controls, establishing programming standards for suppliers, implementing redundant program backups, and optimizing both local and remote PLC connectivity.
• Design, debug, and refine PLC ladder logic, emphasizing code that is impeccably organized, structured, comprehensively documented, easily maintainable, and reusable. This code will interface with critical subsystems including conveyors, robots, gantry systems, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), machine vision, and 3rd party equipment.
• Serve as the division-wide Controls Subject Matter Expert (SME), providing invaluable guidance to capital engineers and plant technicians in equipment construction, troubleshooting, and documentation. Additionally, provide training to maintenance and technicians as required.
• Lead automation projects including concept work, equipment specification, controls development, factory acceptance testing, installation, and commissioning/debug, and training.
• Act as a controls resource during design phase for priority automation or capital projects, reviewing current electrical drawings as needed to ensure seamless equipment and safety integrations.
• Identify, cultivate, and implement best proactive process controls, driving efficiency across plant networks.
• Lead the charge in Industry 4.0 efforts by establishing and fortifying Operational Technology (OT) networks, paving the way for seamless integration of Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities across all plants.
• Develop, review, and maintain crucial documentation, files, procedures, databases, drawings, and schematics to ensure the integrity of unit instrument and process control technologies.
• Optimize equipment performance through the implementation of robust control schemes, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to define clear priorities and project objectives aligned with organizational goals.
• Apply advanced engineering principles to effectively troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges, ensuring uninterrupted operations.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors of Science degree in Electrical, Electro-Mechanical or other related Engineering discipline.
• 10+ years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment, with a minimum of 7+ years of progressive experience in controls
• Must have proficiency in Ladder Logic Programming specifically with Allen Bradley RS Logix and Siemens SIMATIC.
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Industrial Communication Protocols, specifically Ethernet IP desired; experience with legacy controls system migration a plus
• In-depth knowledge of engineering principles, equipment design, and manufacturing processes.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with effective troubleshooting and resolution of technical challenges.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for technical documentation and effective interaction.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; stand; walk; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Additionally, this position must make general decisions requiring judgement and perform activities requiring sustained concentration.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The noise level in the work environment is sometimes moderate when working in an office, however, some of the work may be required in the operating units which mandates usage of required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, etc. May also result in exposure to outside elements and may require usage of stairs and elevators. Travel up to 50%, will vary with stage of projects.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.

If you are an active Westlake employee (or an employee of any Westlake affiliates), please do not apply here. You will apply via the Jobs Hub application in Workday.