What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controls Engineer position at Sapience Automation?
Job Description: Controls Engineer
Company Overview
Sapience Automation, a reputable provider of turnkey solutions for industrial automation, specializes
in serving diverse industries such as automotive, medical, aviation, building products, general
industrial, domestic appliances, and food. Headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina, Sapience is
committed to fostering long-term customer relationships by consistently delivering excellence
through its skilled workforce, standardized processes, and passion for innovation. The company
values transparency, continuous learning, and a strong sense of responsibility and accountability.
With a successful track record of executing numerous global projects, Sapience attributes its
achievements to its exceptional team, adherence to industry standards, and unwavering commitment
to excellence. Competitive compensation packages are offered to qualified candidates.
Role: Automation Controls Engineer
Responsibilities:
Openings exist for roles in either PLC Programming, Electrical System Design, or a combined
position involving both functions on projects.
PLC / Software Programming
Design, develop, and implement PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programs to control
robot systems and other automated systems.
Program peripheral devices such as vision system, RFID controllers, and automated
inspection equipment.
Execute the installation, debugging, and production launch of robot systems during the prebuild
phase at Sapience and on-site installations.
Test programs during the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) / Modular Build phase at Sapience’s
facility.
Provide remote support to Sapience team members via remote connection.
Proficiency with Allen Bradley PLCs or Siemens PLCs is required and experience with other
PLCs, MES systems, or robot programming is a plus.
Control Panel and Automation Electrical & Pneumatic System Design
Design control panels, electrical controls, safety hardware, and pneumatic controls for robot
systems and automation equipment such as conveyors.
Create detailed drawings of system designs.
Collaborate with vendors and Sapience’s purchasing department to obtain quotes and
procure necessary materials for the system.
Oversee the panel build process to ensure compliance with specifications. Panel builds are
done either internally at Sapience or through partner companies.
Support engineers during system installation, testing, and debugging.
Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical or E-Plan required.
Qualifications and Education Requirements
Minimum of 3 years of experience in the robotics or automation industry.
Post-high-school degree in a technical discipline.
Strong written and spoken communication skills.
Proficiency with PCs and Microsoft Office applications.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
Troubleshooting and debugging skills related to electrical control systems.
Additional Notes
Occasional travel to customer sites is required to support system installations and provide
production support.
The company offers a robust benefits program.
The position is located in Charleston, South Carolina. Charleston, SC has been rated the best
U.S. city to visit by Travel and Leisure for 12 years in a row and offers a rare combination of a
coastal city, a growing manufacturing base, and a highly cultural city known for its history,
dining, and other activities.