Controls Engineer
Controls Engineer - Oakland, NJ
Description
This role is suited to someone who enjoys understanding how machines work and making them better. The engineering team drives packaging innovation by designing custom equipment that improves performance and exceeds customer expectations. Engineers work closely not only with customers, but also with internal teams across sales, manufacturing, and assembly.
The organisation offers rewarding and challenging opportunities globally across multiple packaging segments. This is an environment for individuals who are excited by automation, machinery, and continuous improvement.
Position Overview
The Controls Engineer contributes to the success of the organisation by designing, coding, and testing control systems for pressure‑sensitive labellers and integrated labelling systems within automated production lines in the packaging industry.
The role is based at the Oakland manufacturing facility, which supports critical industries including Pharmaceutical and Food & Beverage manufacturing. This position reports directly to the Engineering Manager.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain control system designs, schematics, and bills of materials (BOMs) for pressure‑sensitive labelling systems
- Code, test, debug, and troubleshoot PLC and HMI programs
- Provide technical support for Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs), on‑site installations, and after‑sales support, both in the field and remotely
- Manage the electrical and controls scope of all non‑standard projects
- Collaborate with panel shop technicians to ensure assembly, wiring, installation, and operation of control panels and electrical systems meet quality standards, applicable codes, and customer requirements
- Select and specify electrical and controls components
- Support the sales team with equipment selection, hardware pricing, and labour estimates for customised products
- Prepare validation and design specification documentation as required
- Travel up to 10% to customer sites
What's Offered
The organisation promotes an open and communicative environment that encourages individual initiative and professional growth. Employees are supported in building long‑term careers and are provided with opportunities to make a clear and tangible impact.
Total compensation includes base pay with potential short‑term incentive opportunities, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, paid time off, a retirement savings plan with company match, and a wellness programme. Benefits are available from the first day of employment, with no waiting period.
Placement within the salary range is determined by years of directly relevant experience, market data, and internal compensation considerations.
Base Salary Range: $100,000 - $125,000 per year
Please note that pay ranges listed on external job boards may not accurately reflect internal compensation ranges.
Candidate Profile
- Bachelor's degree in engineering (Electrical or Computer Engineering preferred)
- Minimum of 5 years' experience in Controls Engineering
- Strong PLC programming experience (Allen Bradley/Rockwell, Keyence, Panasonic, or similar)
- Proficiency with RSLogix / Studio 5000, AutoCAD, Microsoft Office, and FactoryTalk View
- Experience with vision systems (e.g. Cognex) is an advantage
- Strong mechanical aptitude
- Experience controlling sensors, actuators, pneumatics, stepper and servo motors, and VFD drives
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Working knowledge of NEC, UL, NEMA, CE, NFPA 79, PMMI, and relevant ISO/EN standards
About the Organisation
The organisation has been recognised multiple times as one of the fastest‑growing private companies in the United States and continues to introduce innovative products, expand into new markets, grow its global footprint, and acquire new technical capabilities.
It combines the stability, market strength, and rewards of a large organisation with the entrepreneurial culture of a fast‑paced, growth‑oriented business. Employees benefit from a collaborative environment where individual contributions are valued and professional impact is highly visible.
FAQs
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