Remote Plc Ladder Logic Programming Jobs in Grand Rapids, MI

The Controls Engineer reports to the Technical Training Manager and provides third-level support for advanced control systems, leads continuous improvement initiatives, executes small-scale retrofit projects, and collaborates with customers and internal teams to enhance system performance. The Controls Engineer also assists with system installations and updates and develops and maintains detailed technical documentation and user guides. This position relies on a comprehensive understanding of TGW’s mechanical, electrical, and control systems, coupled with a strong commitment to TGW’s quality and safety standards.

This is a remote position, with frequent travel required.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides advanced troubleshooting and resolution for complex control system issues to ensure minimal downtime and maximum operational efficiency
• Collaborates with customers and internal teams to identify opportunities for system optimization and implement continuous improvement programs.
• Plans, coordinates, and executes small retrofit projects, ensuring seamless integration of upgrades into existing systems. 
• Supports the installation and commissioning of new systems, including configuring control software and ensuring alignment with operational requirements.
• Creates, updates, and maintains technical documentation, including troubleshooting guides, operating manuals, and system configuration guidelines. 
• Performs root cause analyses for recurring issues, provides corrective actions, and develops long-term solutions to improve system reliability.
• Refines and enhances PLC programs and SCADA configurations as needed to meet customer specific requirements.
• Acts as a subject matter expert on TGW’s automation systems, providing technical guidance to customers and internal teams.
• Works closely with the Technical Training team to contribute field insights, support the development of training materials, and ensure consistent knowledge transfer.
• Ensures all projects, updates, and maintenance activities comply with TGW’s quality and safety standards.
• Performs other duties as required.

Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, or a related field, or equivalent work experience. 

Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of experience in controls systems engineering, with a focus on material-handling or industrial automation systems preferred. 

Travel: 70% of travel as required.

Skills & Abilities

• Demonstrated experience in PLC programming and troubleshooting (Siemens preferred) and SCADA systems. 
• Strong knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems, with the ability to interpret schematics and technical drawings.
• Experience in executing small retrofit projects, system installations, and related project-based tasks. 
• Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies and tools. 
• Proficiency in creating and maintaining technical documentation and guides.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication and customer service skills, with the ability to work effectively across diverse teams. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Teams, Excel, Word, etc.)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk around industrial and/or warehouse environment for prolonged periods of time.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds at a time. 
• Ability to operate computers, tablets, phones, and other electronic devices. 
• Visual and auditory abilities to work safely with and around moving and/or motorized equipment, machinery, parts, and electricity that require safety protocols
• Ability to move and use muscles for extended periods of time without fatigue.
• Ability to climb ladders, bend, or crawl into awkward spaces. 
• Ability to communicate regularly with others verbally and in writing. 
• Ability to tolerate exposure to job site temperature fluctuations due to seasonal weather in geographic region.

The physical demands described above 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

TGW Systems Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.