Automation and Controls Engineering Leader - Industrial Kinetics, Inc.

Are you looking for a position with a lot of variety and autonomy? Are you looking to lead the controls department and make an impact? We are searching for an Automation and Controls Engineering Leader with strong leadership, technical expertise, sales capability, and the ability to manage complex projects.

In exchange for your expertise and leadership, you can look forward to:

• Competitive compensation
• Paid vacation and sick time
• 9 paid holidays
• SIX different medical options
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• 401(k) (with employer match)
• Tool allowance
• The chance to be part of a 50-year tradition of excellence

Company Overview:

At Industrial Kinetics, we're not just about conveyor systems; we're about revolutionizing the way goods move efficiently and seamlessly. Since 1969, we've been creating innovative material handling concepts that make a quantifiable difference to the bottom lines of our ever-growing list of national and international clients to keep them ahead of their competition for years to come. From the simplest conveyor equipment to the complexities of highly technical robotic parts manipulation, we are our customers' single-source answer to even the most difficult projects. To learn more about us please visit: https://www.iki.com/

Position Summary:

Reporting to the President, the Automation and Controls Engineering Leader will oversee the design, development, implementation, and optimization of advanced control systems for conveyor systems. This position will lead a team of engineers, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and manage all phases of control systems development from conceptual design to commissioning and maintenance.

Responsibilities:

Technical:

• Lead the design and architecture of control systems, including remote I/O architectures.
• Develop and implement safety circuits and schematics.
• Program PLCs, with a strong emphasis on Allen Bradley systems.
• Integrate host interfaces using various communication protocols such as Ethernet IP, Device Net, and ASI.
• Select and configure motor controls, including AC motors, DC motors, starters, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and servo motors.
• Specify and integrate sensors, including photo eyes, limit switches, encoders, and other machine and conveyor sensors.
• Design and implement safety systems, including Safety PLCs, light curtains, floor mats, and emergency stop systems.
• Oversee the commissioning of control systems and ensure seamless operation post-installation.
• Adhere to all company and customer safety protocols.

Managerial:

• Manage suppliers, including subcontractors for both material and programming services.
• Collaborate closely with systems and mechanical engineering teams to ensure cohesive project execution.
• Maintain clear and effective communication with customers and project managers throughout the project lifecycle.
• Ensure project-level profitability by monitoring costs, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Drive departmental profitability through efficient management of resources and continuous process improvement.

Sales:

• Review customer specifications and provide expert input for feasibility and execution.
• Prepare detailed and accurate quotes and bids for prospective projects.
• Support sales efforts by developing creative and customized control solutions.
• Participate in sales presentations, offering technical insights and solutions to prospective clients.
• Prepare quotes for both internal execution and projects executed by subcontractors.
• Occasional travel (up to 10%) may be required for on-site commissioning and support.

Product Development:

• Develop and refine MDR (Motor Driven Roller) architecture and programming for new and existing conveyor systems.
• Innovate and optimize AC drive architecture and programming.
• Design machine-level product kits that can be standardized across projects.
• Lead the development of AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robots) conveyor controls, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics or a related field preferred, OR equivalent conveyor automation industry experience required.
• Extensive experience in PLC programming, specifically Allen Bradley systems.
• Proven track record in designing and implementing control system architectures, including safety circuits and I/O configurations.
• Extensive knowledge of SolidWorks is required.
• Extensive knowledge of Epicor or similar ERP system is required.
• Strong understanding of motor control technologies and various communication protocols.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and teams, with a focus on profitability and customer satisfaction.
• Experience in sales support, including bid preparation, creative solution development, and sales presentations.
• Strong product development skills, with experience in MDR and AC drive systems.

Company offering:

Industrial Kinetics offers competitive compensation, paid vacation, paid holidays, and a rich benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, 401(k) and more.

To Apply:

If are looking to make an impact on the controls department and want a position with a lot of variety and autonomy, we want you to be a part of our team! Interested individuals, please submit your resume by clicking the apply button.

Industrial Kinetics is an equal opportunity employer.

Key Words:

Conveyor, Conveyor Systems, Automation, Robotics, Automations Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Automation Controls Engineer