Lightera · 12 hours ago
Controls Engineer
Lightera, a global leader in fiber optic cable manufacturing, is seeking a Controls Engineer to design, develop, and optimize automation systems for precision fiber optic cable manufacturing. This role focuses on integrating cutting-edge technologies into existing equipment while exploring innovative control and automation solutions to enhance reliability, safety, and throughput.
Responsibilities
Design, program, and maintain PLC/HMI systems, with a strong focus on Siemens PLCs/Drives (TIA Portal, Step 7, SINAMICS, VFDs)
Support and troubleshoot Rockwell Automation platforms (Logix 5000, SLC 500, PLC-5) where applicable
Develop, test, and optimize automation solutions to improve manufacturing performance, repeatability, and safety
Lead or contribute to cross-functional projects from concept through deployment, ensuring cost-effective, scalable, and maintainable controls integration
Collaboration with Safety Engineering to develop machine guarding solutions, including safety PLCs and safety relay-based systems
Interface with remote hardware (motors, sensors, actuators, I/O modules, etc.)
Generate and maintain clear documentation, including wiring diagrams, system architecture, PLC logic, procedures, and troubleshooting guides
Collaborate with internal teams across manufacturing, R&D, and other Lightera sites to scale and replicate control strategies
Support the design of custom machinery and automated test setups using 3D CAD tools like SolidWorks and AutoCAD
Qualification
Required
Design, program, and maintain PLC/HMI systems, with a strong focus on Siemens PLCs/Drives (TIA Portal, Step 7, SINAMICS, VFDs)
Support and troubleshoot Rockwell Automation platforms (Logix 5000, SLC 500, PLC-5) where applicable
Develop, test, and optimize automation solutions to improve manufacturing performance, repeatability, and safety
Lead or contribute to cross-functional projects from concept through deployment, ensuring cost-effective, scalable, and maintainable controls integration
Collaboration with Safety Engineering to develop machine guarding solutions, including safety PLCs and safety relay-based systems
Interface with remote hardware (motors, sensors, actuators, I/O modules, etc.)
Generate and maintain clear documentation, including wiring diagrams, system architecture, PLC logic, procedures, and troubleshooting guides
Collaborate with internal teams across manufacturing, R&D, and other Lightera sites to scale and replicate control strategies
Support the design of custom machinery and automated test setups using 3D CAD tools like SolidWorks and AutoCAD
Preferred
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, or related field
5+ years of experience in controls/automation engineering roles in a manufacturing environment
Experience with fiber optic cable manufacturing or related precision/continuous process industries preferred
Project Management certification (e.g., PMP) or equivalent project leadership experience desired
Demonstrated success working independently and collaboratively in fast-paced, technical environments
Strong communication, organizational, and documentation skills
A passion for troubleshooting, innovation, and hands-on problem-solving
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, tuition reimbursement, matching 401(k))
Competitive compensation and performance-based incentives
Opportunities for career advancement and technical development
Company
Lightera
Lightera was created through the integration of Furukawa Electric Group’s optical fiber business units, including the Fiber Cable Division in Japan, OFS LLC, and Furukawa Electric LATAM S.A.
H1B Sponsorship
Lightera has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (2)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageCompany data provided by crunchbase