Automation and Controls Engineer

Job Type: Full-Time, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM

Salary: $85,000 - $110,000/annually

Reports To: Director of R&D

STL, Inc. is a family business where anyone has the opportunity to challenge themselves to learn something completely new. Yes, we are an industry leader in printing, but we also extrude adhesives and develop and build machines for the fruit and produce industry. Our business thrives on innovation, customized solutions, and the ability to think outside the box to manufacture a wide range of adhesive tapes and labels for niche customers.

We are seeking a highly skilled Automation & Controls Engineer to manage, troubleshoot, and optimize our modern servo-controlled equipment, PLCs, HMIs, and motion control systems. This role will also lead the integration of new equipment into our manufacturing processes and contribute to designing controls for machines we build for our customers.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on problem solver with experience in industrial automation, motion control, and electrical systems. This position is critical to ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and advancement of our manufacturing operations.

• Maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment.
• Configure and program HMIs, VFDs, and servo drives to improve machine performance.
• Work with maintenance and production teams to minimize downtime and improve equipment reliability.

• Design, develop, and implement control systems for custom machines that we build and sell.
• Create electrical schematics and specify components for control panel builds.
• Work with mechanical engineers to integrate electrical and automation components into new designs.

• Direct involvement and support for new equipment selection.
• Lead installation and commissioning for new machinery in our manufacturing facility.
• Work with vendors and contractors to ensure successful equipment implementation.

• Analyze machine data and automation systems to identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Implement automation upgrades and modifications to improve production speed, consistency, and quality.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and recommend improvements.

• Train maintenance and production staff on best practices for equipment operation and troubleshooting.
• Work cross-functionally with R&D, production, and maintenance teams to drive continuous improvement.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• OR Associate’s Degree in a technical field with 5 years of experience in industrial automation.
• 3-7 years of experience working with PLC, HMI, servo systems, and industrial automation in a manufacturing environment.

• Hands-on experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting (Yaskawa, Siemens, Bosch, etc.).
• Experience with HMI development and machine interface troubleshooting.
• Strong understanding of servo drives, motion control, and VFDs.
• Ability to design electrical control panels and create schematics using AutoCAD Electrical or similar.
• Experience with industrial networking protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, PROFINET, etc.).
• Familiarity with robotics, sensors, and SCADA systems is a plus.

• Strong problem-solving skills with a hands-on approach to troubleshooting.
• Excellent project management skills with experience leading equipment installation projects.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for collaborating with vendors, engineers, and production teams.

• Rockwell/Siemens PLC Programming Certification
• NFPA 70E Electrical Safety Training
• OSHA Safety Certification

• Innovative Work Environment: Work on cutting-edge automation in the printing and label industry.
• Career Growth: Expand your skills in machine design, process automation, and project management.
• Impactful Role: Lead major automation projects that enhance our production efficiency.
• Family-Oriented Culture: Work for a company that values its employees and fosters a supportive atmosphere.
• Competitive Compensation & Benefits: Including health insurance, 401(k), and professional development support.

If you're ready to take on a challenge, learn new skills, and work in an environment that values innovation and teamwork, we encourage you to apply today!