Senior Control Engineer - Manufacturing

George Thomas has partnered with a global industrial packaging manufacturer based in the US.

We are actively hiring a Senior Controls Engineer who will lead controls, automation, and engineering initiatives across the NJ plant. This role will ensure that control systems and production equipment remain safe, reliable, compliant, and efficient.

Location - Middlesex County, NJ (Relocation Assistance provided)

How you will add value to the team:

• Design and deliver mechanical, electrical, controls, and automation projects that improve safety, productivity, reliability, and cost performance.
• Manage capital projects from initial scope and cost justification through design, installation, commissioning, and completion.
• Prepare project requests, budgets, schedules, specifications, and approval documentation.
• Select and coordinate external suppliers involved in equipment design, tooling, fabrication, and system development.
• Program, modify, test, troubleshoot, and maintain automated equipment and process control systems.
• Maintain backup libraries for PLC, robotic, instrumentation, and other automation software.
• Specify equipment and oversee machinery installations, relocations, upgrades, and commissioning.
• Prepare and maintain engineering drawings and technical documentation.
• Investigate controls issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Support Kaizen and continuous improvement initiatives by reviewing KPIs and identifying opportunities to improve plant performance.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, engineering, suppliers, and other stakeholders to deliver effective solutions.
• Provide occasional support at other facilities or supplier testing locations, with travel expected to be less than 10%.

To be considered for this role you must have:

• A bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• At least 5 years’ experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Extensive knowledge of industrial automation and machine control systems.
• Strong Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLC programming experience.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot controls systems independently and develop preventative procedures.
• Experience managing engineering or capital projects, including budgets, schedules, and suppliers. PMP certification is advantageous.
• The flexibility to support production outside standard working hours when required.
• Strong communication, organisational, and project management skills.
• The ability to work independently and effectively within a cross-functional team.

Apply or reach out directly for a confidential discussion - [email protected]