A Controls Engineer at PPG is a professional with experience developing programmable logic controller (PLC) systems for industrial automation. You will design control system architectures, programming and troubleshooting PLCs, integrating automation technologies, and supporting the reliable operation of manufacturing equipment and processes. Reporting directly to the Senior Manager of Mechanical Engineering you will work directly on-site at our Oak Creek facility. You will improve through automation enhancements, system modernization, and project leadership while collaborating with production teams, vendors, and contractors to improve safety, efficiency, and plant performance.
Key Responsibilities
Design control system architectures and select appropriate hardware and software solutions for manufacturing and process automation applications.
Program, test, troubleshoot, and increase PLC systems to support reliable equipment operation and production performance.
Integrate PLC systems with human-machine interfaces, variable frequency drives, sensors, actuators, and other automation components.
Configure and support networks and protocols, including Ethernet/IP and other plant-level communication systems.
Resolve complex automation, controls, and production equipment issues to minimize downtime and maintain operational continuity.
Support commissioning, startup, validation, and troubleshooting activities for our equipment.
Maintain electrical schematics, panel layouts, and bills of materials for control systems.
Implement automation improvements that enhance productivity, efficiency, reliability, and safety.
Lead modernization efforts for obsolete or legacy control systems and recommend technology upgrades.
Manage controls and automation projects from concept through startup, ensuring successful execution and partner understanding.
Coordinate activities with production teams, contractors, vendors, and engineering personnel to support project and operational goals.
Create and support Management of Change documentation and processes.
Ensure automation systems comply with applicable electrical, safety, and industry standards.
Provide technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced engineers and technical team members.
Qualifications
Knowledge of PLC hardware and software platforms, industrial networking, communication protocols, and automation system integration.
Experience programming and troubleshooting Rockwell Automation platforms, including Studio and ControlLogix and CompactLogix controllers.
3+ years of experience with GE iFix and Ethernet/IP communications.
Proficiency with Rockwell Stratix Switches, FactoryTalk View Studio,
ThinManager, Access, SQL, VBA, PowerFlex variable frequency drives, and AutoCAD.
Working knowledge of FactoryTalk Optix, PlantPAx, Remote I/O, DH+ communications, and Modbus protocols.
Experience designing control system architectures and supporting manufacturing automation systems.
Knowledge of electrical principles, industrial control systems, and automation technologies.
Working knowledge of National Electrical Code requirements and NFPA electrical safety standards.
Experience leading automation projects, coordinating resources, managing schedules, and supporting project budgets.
A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
Experience supporting industrial automation, PLC programming, controls engineering, and manufacturing operations.
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About us:
PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD®
Through leadership in innovation, sustainability and color, PPG helps customers in industrial, transportation, consumer products, and construction markets and aftermarkets to enhance more surfaces in more ways than does any other company. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com and follow @PPG on X.
The PPG Way 2030
We are customer champions
Proactive. Bold. Trustworthy. Everything we do starts with our customers. We listen, move fast and don’t stop until we solve their biggest challenges. When our customers win, we all grow.
We act with purpose and speed
Agile. Data-driven. Empowered. We take smart risks to stay ahead of the competition. We work proactively with agility, using quality data to develop solutions that create value.
We are excellent operators
Productive. Collaborative. Accountable. No matter our role, we identify problems, take ownership and always bring solutions. We are both proactive and responsive to drive continuous improvement and deliver results. We support our frontline, the faces of PPG to our customers.
We compete to win
Future-focused. Driven. Ambitious. We are passionate about growing our business and winning with our customers. We deliver results, embrace new technologies and leverage agility and speed as strengths.
We are PPG proud
Strong. United. Passionate. We work safely, act with integrity and value our diverse perspectives. We celebrate achievements and take pride in the positive impact we create together to protect and beautify the world.
At PPG we use AI in the hiring process to make the process more efficient. AI tools do not make hiring decisions. You can learn more by going to https://careers.ppg.com/us/en/candidate-resources.
PPG provides equal opportunity to all candidates and employees. We offer an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that provides a fulfilling workplace for employees, creates an environment for continuous learning, and embraces the ideas and diversity of others. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, disability status, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
If you need an adjustment due to a disability, please email [email protected].
PPG pay ranges and benefits can vary by location which allows us to compensate employees competitively in different geographic markets. PPG considers several factors in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience and training, qualifications and education, licensure and certifications, and other organizational needs. Other incentives may apply.
Our employee benefits programs are designed to support the health and well-being of our employees. Any insurance coverages and benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents. Benefits will be discussed with you by your recruiter during the hiring process.
PPG values your feedback on our recruiting process. We encourage you to visit Glassdoor.com and provide feedback on the process, so that we can do better today than yesterday.
Skills Required
- 3+ years of experience in PLC programming and automation
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
- Knowledge of PLC hardware and software platforms including programming languages, communication protocols, and networking
- Experience with electrical principles, control theory, and industrial automation technologies
- Ability to analyze complex problems, identify root causes, and implement solutions
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience planning, organizing, and completing engineering projects including managing timelines, budgets, and resources
PPG Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about PPG and has not been reviewed or approved by PPG.
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Retirement Support — 401(k) matching, a Retirement Savings Plan, and mentions of pension structures are part of the package. Feedback suggests these programs strengthen long-term financial security and add meaningful value to total compensation.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Paid holidays, sick days, vacation, and volunteer time off are provided alongside parental leave and adoption assistance. Feedback suggests the breadth of leave options supports work-life needs across different life stages.
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Flexible Benefits — A wide menu includes medical/dental/vision, FSAs/HSAs with company seed contributions for HDHP enrollees, an EAP, and numerous voluntary options such as accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, legal, and pet insurance. Feedback suggests the variety and optionality help employees tailor coverage to their circumstances.
PPG Insights
What We Do
PPG: We protect and beautify the world.® At PPG (NYSE:PPG), we work every day to develop and deliver the paints, coatings and specialty materials that our customers have trusted for more than 140 years. Through dedication and creativity, we solve our customers’ biggest challenges, collaborating closely to find the right path forward. With headquarters in Pittsburgh, we operate and innovate in more than 70 countries and reported net sales of $18.2 billion in 2023. We serve customers in construction, consumer products, industrial and transportation markets and aftermarkets. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com and follow @PPG on X and @PPGIndustries on Facebook, Instagram and Threads
