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Controls Engineering Specialist

Hickory, North Carolina, United States

US Conec, Ltd.

Engineering Innovation. Precision Plastics. Powering AI.

US Conec, Ltd. is a trusted, global company that prides itself on engineering excellence—creating innovative connectivity solutions that support today’s most important technologies. We foster a friendly, inclusive culture that values teamwork, creativity, and mutual respect. At US Conec, you’ll find real opportunities to grow and make a meaningful impact in a company that genuinely cares about its people and its customers. With competitive compensation, excellent benefits, and a supportive environment, this is a place where you can build your future—whether your interests lie in manufacturing, engineering, operations, or beyond.

Overview

The Controls Engineer plays a hands-on role in designing, implementing, and optimizing control systems for automated manufacturing equipment to improve reliability, efficiency, and cost performance. This position partners closely with engineering, maintenance, production, and external integrators to support new equipment launches, enhance existing automation, and resolve complex controls challenges.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and deploy control system solutions supporting automated manufacturing processes
  • Provide first-line technical support for controls-related issues to minimize downtime through effective troubleshooting and escalation
  • Program, troubleshoot, and maintain standard and safety PLC systems for manufacturing equipment and auxiliary systems
  • Develop, modify, and support HMI interfaces to improve machine operation, diagnostics, and operator usability
  • Lead or contribute to controls system improvement initiatives aligned with broader project objectives
  • Participate in controls architecture development, commissioning, FAT/SAT activities, and equipment startup support
  • Configure, program, and optimize machine vision systems for inspection, guidance, verification, and process control
  • Develop and support motion control strategies involving servo systems, stepper drives, VFDs, and coordinated multi-axis and robotic systems
  • Troubleshoot motion systems, including drives, encoders, feedback devices, and sequencing issues
  • Create and maintain comprehensive controls documentation such as electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, I/O lists, and work instructions
  • Coordinate and support controls project activities across assigned business units, including testing, documentation, and progress reporting
  • Stay current with controls technologies, industry standards, and best practices
  • Support and occasionally lead training for technicians and engineers on new or modified control systems
  • Promote and reinforce safe work practices in compliance with electrical safety standards

Must Haves

  • Associate degree or higher in Electrical, Controls, or Mechatronics Engineering Technology, or a related technical field
  • 5+ years of experience in a controls engineering role within a medium-to-high volume manufacturing environment
  • Hands-on experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs (Allen‑Bradley/Rockwell and/or Omron)
  • Strong working knowledge of industrial networking protocols (EtherNet/IP, Profibus, DeviceNet, Modbus, OPC‑UA)
  • Experience with motion control systems including servo drives, VFDs, encoders, and multi-axis coordination
  • Proven experience integrating and optimizing machine vision systems for high repeatability
  • Working knowledge of electrical panel standards, hardware repair practices, and control cabinet components
  • Experience using 2D CAD tools (AutoCAD Electrical or equivalent) for electrical schematics and panel layouts
  • Solid understanding of electrical safety requirements, including NFPA 70E and LOTO procedures
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
  • Proficiency with standard Microsoft Office tools

Nice to Haves

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Controls, or Mechatronics Engineering Technology
  • Experience with robotic automation and advanced motion sequencing
  • Exposure to commissioning complex automated manufacturing lines
  • Experience supporting cross-site or multi-business-unit controls projects
  • Background in technician or engineer training related to automation systems

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary with performance-based bonus potential
  • 4 weeks of PTO plus paid holidays
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • A collaborative culture focused on innovation and continuous improvement
  • Opportunities for career growth within a global technology leader

US Conec will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

Join US Conec today and be part of a team that values each other, promotes innovation and growth, and strives to exceed customer expectations in everything we do. 

 US Conec is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics

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