Automation Controls Engineer

Automation Controls Engineer / PLC Programmer

Location: Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, USA

Job Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire

About the Opportunity

The ideal candidate is a hands-on Automation Controls Engineer or PLC Programmer with strong expertise in Allen-Bradley and Beckhoff platforms, capable of independently programming, integrating, commissioning, and troubleshooting complex industrial automation systems.

• Candidates with experience in conveyor automation, robotics, motion control and automated manufacturing environments will be particularly well suited for this opportunity.
• This is a hands-on programming role with the opportunity to mentor junior engineers and eventually transition to a hybrid or remote setup after becoming fully established.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, program and troubleshoot PLC-based automation systems using Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, CompactLogix and Beckhoff TwinCAT.
• Write, modify and optimize PLC programs using Ladder Logic and Structured Text.
• Develop and maintain HMI applications for industrial automation systems.
• Integrate conveyor systems, robotics, motion controls, sensors, scanners, printers and other industrial devices.
• Design and support electrical control systems for automated manufacturing equipment.
• Configure and troubleshoot VFDs, motors, industrial networks and control hardware.
• Participate in equipment startup, system commissioning, testing and troubleshooting.
• Prepare electrical drawings, technical documentation and system programming documentation.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to improve automation performance and system reliability.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior automation engineers.

What You'll Do:

• Program PLC-based automation systems using Allen-Bradley ControlLogix/CompactLogix and Beckhoff TwinCAT platforms.
• Develop HMI applications and integrate conveyors, robotics, motion controls, sensors, scanners, printers and industrial devices.
• Design electrical control systems, support startup, commissioning and troubleshooting.
• Create technical documentation and mentor junior automation engineers.

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor's degree with 5+ years of automation experience or Associate degree with 10+ years.
• Strong PLC programming in Ladder Logic and Structured Text.
• Experience with Allen-Bradley Studio 5000, Beckhoff TwinCAT and industrial automation systems.
• Knowledge of HMI development, VFDs, motors, electrical controls, and industrial networking.
• Experience designing and supporting automated manufacturing systems.
• Excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with match, profit sharing, PTO, disability coverage, and employee assistance program.

Connect = Azad@staffeagle.com