Automation Controls Manager Jobs in Muscatine, IA

Responsible for the development, implementation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of industrial controls and automation systems throughout the Burlington manufacturing facility. This position works closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Operations, Quality, and other plant functions to improve equipment reliability, productivity, safety, quality, and process capability. Responsibilities include PLC programming and troubleshooting, HMI and control system development, industrial automation, robotics, motion control, electrical controls, equipment integration, and supporting the installation and startup of new and modified production equipment.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

The following pages describe the skills and requirements needed for the position.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  Develop, modify, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC control systems used throughout the manufacturing facility.

  Program and support PLCs, HMIs, industrial computers, robotics, motion controls, and other automated equipment.

  Troubleshoot electrical and controls-related problems to minimize equipment downtime and improve overall equipment effectiveness.

  Support the design, installation, programming, commissioning, and startup of new and modified automated production equipment.

  Develop and implement controls improvements to increase equipment reliability, productivity, quality, safety, and process capability.

  Provide technical support and training to electricians, maintenance personnel, and production team members on PLC, controls, automation, and electrical systems.

  Work closely with Maintenance and Engineering personnel to identify recurring equipment problems and develop permanent corrective actions.

  Support integration of robots, vision systems, sensors, drives, servo systems, safety circuits, and other automation technologies.

  Troubleshoot and modify electrical control circuitry, including AC/DC controls, motor controls, VFDs, sensors, relays, safety devices, and industrial communication systems.

  Develop, modify, and maintain PLC and HMI programs, control logic, and associated documentation.

  Support industrial communication networks and connectivity between PLCs, HMIs, robots, drives, and other production equipment.

  Lead or support capital projects involving automation, controls, electrical systems, and production equipment.

  Assist with equipment specifications, vendor selection, installation, commissioning, and acceptance of new automation and controls equipment.

  Maintain and update electrical schematics, PLC programs, HMI documentation, controls documentation, and other engineering records.

  Identify opportunities to automate manual processes and implement technology that improves manufacturing efficiency and consistency.

  Support plant scrap reduction, quality improvement, continuous improvement, and cost-reduction initiatives through automation and controls solutions.

  Work with production and maintenance teams to identify opportunities for data collection, process monitoring, and automated equipment diagnostics.

  Ensure controls and automation systems comply with applicable electrical, machine safety, and company standards.

  Follow all applicable safety requirements, including Lockout/Tagout, when working with electrical and automated equipment.

  Maintain a strong working knowledge of electrical and electronic theory, including AC/DC circuits, PLC logic, motor controls, solid-state devices, sensors, and industrial automation.

  Maintain a safe working environment and promote safe work practices throughout the facility.

Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

EDUCATION:

  Associate's or Technical degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Controls, Industrial Technology, or a related field required.

  Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

CORE COMPETENCIES

WORKING CONDITIONS / JOB EXPECTATIONS:

  Minimum of 2 years of experience in industrial controls, automation, electrical engineering, manufacturing engineering, industrial maintenance, or a related field.

  PLC programming and troubleshooting experience required.

  Manufacturing or industrial automation experience preferred.

  Experience with robotics, HMI systems, VFDs, motion control, or industrial networking preferred.

  Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose complex electrical and controls problems.

  Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, control drawings, equipment manuals, and technical documentation.

  Ability to communicate effectively with electricians, maintenance personnel, operators, engineers, supervisors, and outside suppliers.

  Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while supporting day-to-day manufacturing needs.

  Strong commitment to safety, quality, continuous improvement, and equipment reliability.

  Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of a cross-functional team.

  Position requires regular presence in the manufacturing environment and interaction with production and maintenance personnel.

  May require work around operating machinery, electrical equipment, robotics, automated systems, and industrial processes.

  Occasional off-shift, weekend, or overtime support may be required for equipment startups, troubleshooting, or critical projects.

  Must follow all applicable company safety policies, electrical safety requirements, and Lockout/Tagout procedures.

  May require occasional travel to equipment suppliers, training locations, or other Tenneco facilities.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Drug Screen and background check required.