CONTROLS ENGINEER

Job Title: Automation Controls Engineer
Location: Decatur, IL
Department: Engineering
Compensation: $90,000 per year competitive bonus opportunities
Travel Requirement: Up to 25%

 Who We Are:

At Align Production Systems, we are at the forefront of innovation in heavy industry, designing and building autonomous vehicle (AGV) systems and advanced material handling solutions that transform operations for industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing. As an Automation Controls Engineer, you won’t just program systems—you’ll be involved in turnkey projects, working with cutting-edge technologies and seeing your ideas through from concept to completion.

Our team collaborates with global leaders like Kollmorgen and Swedish AGV partners, offering you the chance to work on some of the most exciting automation projects in the world. If you’re passionate about building next-generation systems and want to be part of a company that’s pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, this is the perfect role for you.

 Position Overview:

As an Automation Controls Engineer, you will be a key player in designing, developing, and implementing control systems for automated material handling equipment. You’ll collaborate with mechanical engineers, write programs, and act as a key point of contact for customers. This role offers the chance to lead exciting projects with hands-on development, troubleshooting, and collaboration with international AGV technology partners.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Innovate & Lead: Design and develop control systems for autonomous material handling solutions as well as manual mobile vehicles, working closely with Swedish AGV partners and Kollmorgen to deliver cutting-edge technology.
• Project Leadership: Take ownership of projects from design to installation, working directly with customers to commission systems in-house and on-site.
• Hands-On Development: Write PLC programs, build programming libraries, create system logic for AGV fleets, and ensure smooth integration with customer facilities, including touchscreens, communication networks, and control systems.
• Collaboration & Problem Solving: Partner with mechanical design engineers, product engineers, and AGV technology experts to ensure seamless integration across systems and solve complex engineering challenges.
• Test & Commission: Perform startup diagnostics, troubleshoot control systems, and work with customers to establish AGV communication with their operational systems.

 What You’ll Gain:

• Experience working with advanced automation technologies, including Kohl Morgan systems and Swedish AGV partners.
• Opportunities to lead turnkey builds and take projects from concept to full realization.
• Hands-on exposure to a wide range of systems including pneumatics, hydraulics, robotics, communication networks, and more.
• The chance to work with global leaders in AGV technology and make an impact in the future of industrial automation.

 Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Controls Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• 1 year of experience in electrical or automation systems, with skills in AutoCAD Electrical, Allen-Bradley PLC, and structured text programming.
• Experience in project management, with a proven ability to lead multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Strong mechanical skills, troubleshooting expertise, and knowledge of NEC rules and best practices.
• Experience working with CANbus and Ethernet communications is a plus.

 Why Align Production Systems?

• Innovative Projects: Work on groundbreaking autonomous vehicle and AGV systems that are transforming industries.
• Global Collaboration: Collaborate with international partners like Kohl Morgan and Swedish AGV technology experts.
• Full Project Ownership: Lead projects from start to finish, seeing the direct impact of your work.
• Competitive Benefits: Health, dental, vision insurance, 401(k) with company contributions, paid time off, and more.