Protection & Controls Engineer Jobs in South Carolina

JTEKT North America is a global leader in engineering and manufacturing automotive systems, bearing solutions, and high-performance machine tools. As a proud member of the Toyota Group, we are committed to innovation, quality, and continuous improvement. Our Piedmont plant has undergone a major expansion, bringing in over 120 new machines and automation systems, creating exciting opportunities for growth and advancement.

Summary/Purpose

As a Control Engineer, you’ll be the go-to expert for designing, programming, and optimizing advanced automation systems. You’ll work with cutting-edge tech like Mitsubishi and Allen-Bradley PLCs, Fanuc robotics, and Keyence vision systems, all while helping us scale up our high-volume, 24/7 production lines.

Essential Duties and Accountabilities:

• Architect and program PLC/SCADA/HMI systems for high-volume, 24/7 production lines using Mitsubishi, Allen-Bradley, and Fanuc PMC platforms.
• Integrate and support Fanuc robotics and Keyence vision/laser systems for automated inspection and traceability.
• Collaborate with Process Engineering, Quality, and Corporate PE teams to deploy turnkey automation cells and support new product launches.
• Lead root-cause analyses to resolve technical issues and reduce unplanned downtime.
• Drive data-driven improvements using OEE, SPC, and other analytics tools to enhance quality and efficiency.
• Design and develop tooling, fixtures, and gauging to support robust and repeatable manufacturing processes.
• Analyze and optimize processes to improve quality, reduce costs, and shorten cycle times.
• Update and manage engineering documentation and implement process changes in support of APQP and PPAP.
• Commission and validate new equipment to meet production and quality standards; evaluate and adjust spare parts strategies.
• Conduct equipment capability studies, develop PFMEAs, and manage capital equipment purchases.
• Generate detailed engineering reports and lead projects related to process changes and new product introductions.
• Support 5S and safety initiatives to maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work environment.
• Mentor and assist maintenance and production teams with troubleshooting and long-term system reliability.
• Take ownership of additional responsibilities as assigned by management.
• Work overtime as needed to support production schedules, equipment launches, or urgent troubleshooting.
• Other duties as assigned by management

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Proficient in PLC/HMI programming (Mitsubishi, Allen-Bradley) and SCADA systems for high-volume automation.  Experience in Fanuc robotics, Keyence vision systems, and laser marking integration is preferred. 
• Strong problem-solving skills for automated equipment troubleshooting and root cause analysis; ability to read and develop electrical schematics and troubleshoot complex control systems.
• Experienced in controls software development, implementation, and debugging.
• Effective in cross-functional collaboration and managing capital projects and use of data analytics tools (OEE, SPC) to drive performance improvements. 
• Knowledge of the following: Lean, Six Sigma, TPS, IATF 16949 and engineering documentation standards for process optimization and continuous improvement.
• Commitment to safety and 5S (maintaining a clean and efficient work environment)

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Electrical, Mechatronics, Automation or related field) and/or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
• 3+ years of experience in automotive (preferred) or high-volume manufacturing.
• 3+ years of experience in electrical and controls design for automated equipment; controls software development, implementation and troubleshooting.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

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

• Work shift as assigned and overtime is required, as needed.
• Will be required to do the following throughout the shift: standing, bending, pushing, pulling, reaching above and below shoulders, moving left to right repetitively, grasping, and fine finger dexterity. 
• May be required to lift during shift up to 40 lbs.
• Specific vision abilities required with this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• The performance of this position requires exposure to manufacturing areas which require the use of personal protective equipment such as steel-toed shoes, safety glasses with side shields.
• Forklift, walkee stacker, and or scissor lift experience.