Manufacturing Engineer

Job Summary

As a Manufacturing Engineer, you will play a key role in supporting and improving our food manufacturing equipment and processes. You will collaborate closely with Mechanical and Controls Engineers to design and develop new equipment, production lines, and manufacturing processes. In addition, you will support ongoing operations by supporting lean initiatives, driving equipment upgrades, and implementing waste reduction projects to improve efficiency and product quality.

The Manufacturing Engineer will support our Watershed Pet Solutions business in Oak Creek, WI.

• Develop and program PLCs, HMIs, and other control systems to meet project specifications.
• Create electrical and control system schematics, including wiring diagrams and layouts.
• Design control panels, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

• Integrate sensors, actuators, and other devices into control systems.
• Work closely with cross‑functional teams to integrate controls into larger systems.
• Ensure compatibility and communication between hardware and software components.

• Diagnose and resolve issues in existing control systems.
• Perform upgrades or modifications to enhance system performance and reliability.
• Maintain accurate documentation for all control systems, including software and hardware configurations.

• Collaborate with project managers to define control system requirements and timelines.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of new control systems.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices.

• Identify opportunities for automation and process optimization.
• Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices.
• Train and support maintenance and operations teams on control system use and troubleshooting.

• Detailed working knowledge of control theory, PLC programming, PID controllers, HMI software, Ethernet networking, AC/DC drives, up to 480V systems, electro‑mechanical systems, and VFDs.
• Able to understand control logic for complex plant and production systems.
• Familiarity with HMI/SCADA systems and software tools.
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus).
• Competence in CAD software for control system design.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a related field preferred. Equivalent experience HFFS programing or technical equipment management would be considered.
• 5+ years of experience in controls engineering, preferably in a manufacturing or industrial environment.