Automation Controls Manager Jobs in Augusta, GA (NOW HIRING)

Morgan Advanced Materials is a business rich in history and innovation. Founded in the UK in 1856, we have grown into a global organisation with 70 sites in 18 countries. Our model to serve our customers where they need us has led to a diversified product range using our unparalleled expertise in ceramic and carbon materials, which we exploit to solve difficult problems for our customers across a diverse range of markets.

We are a purpose driven organisation. Our purpose is to use advanced materials to make the world more sustainable and to improve the quality of life. We deliver on that purpose through the products that we make, and the way that we make them.

The Thermal Ceramics division designs, manufactures and installs a broad range of thermal insulation products that significantly reduce energy consumption and emissions in a variety of high temperature processing applications. Our product offering is extensive and covers application needs from Industrial to Commercial markets.

Key Figures: Revenue 1,100.7m (2024), ~8,000 employees, manufacturing in 20+ countries, and a global customer portfolio. A UK PLC with head office located in Windsor, Berkshire UK.  Listed on London Stock Exchange; Member of the FTSE 250 Index.

POSITION SUMMARY

The PLC Controls Project Engineer will be responsible for coordinating and monitoring a wide variety of plant / regional projects that include anything from organization changes to plant utilities to production equipment. This position is expected to be actively involved in projects with the ability to complete value added work such as schematics and drawings, field installation advice and direction, component selection and ordering / management of invoicing. This position works closely with outside contractors and the Operations team to achieve the goals of the organization.  

JOB FUNCTIONSThe successful candidate will possess a deep expertise in developing automation systems and programming from the ground up within manufacturing and industrial environments. Have a proven ability to generate PLC/HMI code from scratch for new process equipment and Greenfield projects, including developing complete controls architecture, process flow maps, and controls narratives from a blank slate. Come with a strong background in creating and interpreting electrical schematics, panel layouts, and technical drawings while supporting system design, startup, troubleshooting, and optimization efforts. Will demonstrates strong mechanical, electrical, and maintenance aptitude with the ability to identify root causes, improve system reliability, and enhance operational performance across complex automated processes. 

Other Responsibilities will include: 

• Prepare, schedule, coordinate and monitor assigned engineering projects.
• Interact daily with maintenance and contractors to interpret their needs and requirements as well as assist with installations and troubleshooting.
• Contribute actively to project success with full involvement in added value activities.
• Actively seek process improvement opportunities outside of assigned project work with the goal of generating new improvement projects.
• Completes engineering projects by organizing and controlling project elements.
• Completes technical studies and prepares cost estimates.
• Maintains the project schedule by monitoring progress, activities and resolving problems.
• Controls project costs by approving expenditure and administering contractor contracts.
• Maintains a safe and clean work environment by enforcing procedures, rules and regulations.
• Ensures total project completion is done by agreed upon criteria.
• Minimize production downtime through project completion and troubleshooting assistance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering from an accredited institution
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in manufacturing or related industry.
• Previous experience in paper or ceramics manufacturing preferred.
• Individual must be a

• • Citizen of the United States, or
  • Permanent resident alien of the United States, or
  • Protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324(a)(3)

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Knowledge in continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience managing multiple mechanical and electrical contractors.
• Experience with troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues in the field.
• Proficiency is statistical data analysis, preparing and providing presentations on results, ability to present projects for larger audiences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Applications, specifically MS Excel and PowerPoint
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and tasks.
• Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be able to clearly present ideas and reports in written and verbal format.
• Ability to work cohesively within a team and independently with minimal supervision.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing systems and processes.

SCHEDULE DESCRIPTION

• The typical schedule for this position is an 8-hour day shift, Monday through Friday. Overtime, holiday, and weekend work as needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand and walk.
• Frequently use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools and controls.
• The employee is frequently required to talk and hear to communicate with coworkers.
• Regularly required to climb, stoop, bend and reach with hands and arms.
• The employee is occasionally required to push or pull with hands or arms, kneel or crouch.
• The employee must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision and the ability to distinguish shades and colors.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• This position will work primarily in a controlled office environment, however will have extended periods on the production floor.
• The noise level in the work environment is consistently above 85 decibels when on the production floor.
• During summer months, employee may have to work in temperatures as high as 110 degrees for prolonged periods of time.
• Dust from machine processes is constantly present.
• The employee constantly works near mechanical parts and lift trucks.
• The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or vapors or hazardous products.
• Required to wear steel toed shoes, safety glasses and ear plugs in the manufacturing area. Respirators may also be required depending on production area.