Automation Controls Engineer

Silgan Plastics•Monroe, GA

About The Position

Silgan Plastics is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join our Manufacturing Engineering and Automation team. This role is responsible for the specification, design, programming, installation, training and start-up of industrial control systems supporting blow molding and auxiliary equipment. A key focus of this position is the implementation of automation solutions that reduce end of line labor, improve line efficiency and productivity, enhance safety and reduce operational risk, and support cost reduction initiative across manufacturing operations. The Controls Engineer will work cross-functionally with engineering, operations, maintenance, and safety teams to deliver scalable and reliable automation solutions.

Requirements

PLC programming using Allen‑Bradley / Rockwell Automation software.
Experience setting up and programming HMIs .
Ability to read, create, and maintain: Electrical schematics Single‑line diagrams P&IDs
Proficiency with: Microsoft Office Microsoft Project 2D CAD software (AutoCAD Electrical / Mechanical)
Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
Effective communication with technical and non‑technical stakeholders
Continuous improvement mindset
Willingness to travel and support multiple manufacturing locations
High School Diploma
3–5 years experience

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, or related field)
Working knowledge of PLC/HMI platforms from Siemens, Mitsubishi, or Omron .
Experience with industrial robots such as Yaskawa, Fanuc, Universal Robots, or KUKA .

Responsibilities

Controls & Automation Engineering Design, program, and commission industrial control systems for manufacturing equipment.
Develop PLC and HMI programs primarily using Allen‑Bradley/Rockwell Automation platforms.
Support system start‑ups, debugging, and validation at manufacturing sites.
Provide operator and maintenance training on new and modified systems.
Electrical & Panel Design Design control panels, including: Electrical schematics Bills of materials Wiring diagrams
Read, create, and maintain single‑line diagrams and P&ID drawings . Ensure designs meet applicable safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
Productivity, Cost & Process Improvement Identify and implement productivity improvements and workflow optimizations.
Support automation projects aimed at: Reducing pack labor Improving line efficiency Enhancing product tracking from blow molder to pallet Partner with operations to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Safety & Risk Reduction Provide engineering, PPE, or training solutions in response to near‑misses or accident reports.
Support safety‑focused automation and guarding improvements in high-exposure areas.
Ensure controls solutions align with Silgan safety standards.
Equipment Support & Development Support the design, improvement, and fabrication of internally developed or purchased blow molding and auxiliary equipment.
Collaborate with vendors and internal teams during equipment installation and upgrades.