Automation & Controls Engineer

The Automation & Controls Engineer supports Tru Stile’s manufacturing operations by maintaining,

programming, and optimizing control systems and automation infrastructure. This includes PLC/HMI programming, troubleshooting machine‑level controls, and collaborating on new automation initiatives. The role acts as a technical escalation point for controls and electrical issues and plays a key role in improving safety, reducing downtime, and modernizing processes across the plant.

• Program, troubleshoot, and maintain industrial automation systems including Beckhoff, Allen‑Bradley, and other PLC platforms.
• Configure and support HMI systems used in production equipment interfaces.
• Troubleshoot and modify systems involving VFDs, sensors, encoders, relays, motor starters, and electrical panels (up to 480 V 3‑phase).
• Support and improve safety systems such as light curtains, area scanners, and interlocks to ensure compliance with OSHA and NFPA 70E standards.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, and IT teams to deliver automation and controls solutions aligned with operational priorities.
• Act as a subject matter expert and escalation point for plant controls issues and electrical downtime.
• Maintain a centralized repository of backup programs for PLCs and HMIs; document changes thoroughly.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by implementing automation‑based solutions that increase uptime, quality, or efficiency.
• Provide technical support for installation and commissioning of new equipment or automation upgrades, for various locations including Denver, CO and Northwood, IA.
• Develop and maintain training materials for electrical and controls development and assist in onboarding or mentoring of junior technicians.
• Adhere to all plant safety policies and participate in safety improvement efforts related to controls and automation.

• 3+ years of hands‑on experience in automation, controls, or electrical systems within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong working knowledge of PLC logic and troubleshooting (Beckhoff preferred; Allen‑Bradley a plus).
• Experience reading and modifying electrical schematics, ladder logic, and panel layouts.
• Familiarity with configuring or troubleshooting automation hardware such as light curtains, area scanners, encoders and sensors, and HMIs and touchscreens.
• Electrical troubleshooting experience up to 480 V systems (AC and DC).
• Comfortable working from elevated platforms and scissor lifts; certification required or obtainable.
• Working knowledge of NFPA 70E and OSHA standards for electrical safety.
• Strong analytical, communication, and documentation skills.
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Automation, or a related field.

• Experience with WoodWOP or similar machining interface software.
• Exposure to TwinCAT or structured text programming.
• Familiarity with isolated networks and controls system data integrity best practices.
• OSHA 10/30 certification.
• Experience training others or supporting technical development programs.

• Must work well within a diverse workplace, handle challenges that arise with respect.
• This job posting is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities of the employee. Accommodation may be made to enable an individual with a disability to perform the essential functions of his/her position.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Tru Stile’s continued investment in automation and plant-wide reliability. Candidates with a proactive, solutions‑oriented mindset and a desire to grow within a high‑performing team are encouraged to apply.