Controls Engineer
Petoskey, Michigan
Join a Team That Builds the Future of Manufacturing
Manthei Wood Products is seeking a skilled and motivated
Controls Engineer to support and improve the automation systems that drive our manufacturing operations. This position plays a critical role in maintaining and enhancing PLC-controlled equipment, industrial networks, electrical systems, and process automation technologies to maximize safety, quality, productivity, and reliability.
If you enjoy solving complex problems, improving manufacturing processes, and working in a hands-on environment, we encourage you to apply.
What You'll Do
- Design, program, troubleshoot, and support PLC-based control systems.
- Maintain and improve industrial automation equipment and control networks.
- Diagnose and resolve electrical, controls, instrumentation, and automation issues.
- Develop and modify HMI interfaces and operator control systems.
- Support production and maintenance teams in troubleshooting equipment failures.
- Lead automation and process improvement projects from concept through implementation.
- Assist with startup, commissioning, and testing of new equipment and system upgrades.
- Develop and maintain electrical schematics, control drawings, and technical documentation.
- Analyze manufacturing processes and recommend improvements to increase efficiency, quality, and reliability.
- Support data collection, reporting, and integration between manufacturing systems and business systems.
- Ensure compliance with safety standards and electrical codes.
- Participate in continuous improvement and Lean manufacturing initiatives.
What We're Looking For
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field preferred.
- Experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley/Rockwell/Siemens preferred).
- Experience with HMI development and industrial automation systems.
- Knowledge of industrial electrical systems, VFDs, sensors, instrumentation, and motor controls.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical drawings.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and project management abilities.
- Hands-on, floor-oriented mindset with a willingness to spend significant time in the manufacturing environment troubleshooting equipment, supporting production, and implementing improvements-not simply designing solutions from an office.
Why Join Manthei Wood Products?
- Competitive compensation
- Benefits package
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development opportunities
- Stable, growing manufacturing company
- Collaborative culture built on our values of Collaboration, Responsibility, and Growth
At Manthei Wood Products, we believe great people drive great results. If you're ready to make a meaningful impact on our operations and help shape the future of manufacturing, we'd love to hear from you.