ASTEC · 17 hours ago
Advanced Manufacturing Engineer, Controls
Chattanooga, TN
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
7+ years expAstec is a leader in innovative solutions for building infrastructure and enhancing community connections. They are seeking a skilled Controls Engineer to lead automation and digital integration efforts in manufacturing operations, focusing on PLC programming, MES/ERP connectivity, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
Machinery
Responsibilities
Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.) for new equipment and retrofit projects
Create and maintain electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams using AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN
Develop modular, scalable code structures for efficient reuse and system flexibility
Architect and implement data bridges between shop floor equipment, MES, and ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Plex, etc.)
Standardize data structures and communication protocols using OPC UA, MQTT, and REST APIs
Program and commission industrial robots (Fanuc, ABB, Motoman) for applications including material handling, assembly, and inspection
Integrate robotics with safety systems, vision systems, and control architecture
Lead deployment of IoT-enabled devices for asset monitoring, predictive maintenance, and real-time analytics
Implement edge computing solutions for latency-critical operations and data reduction strategies
Collaborate with IT/OT teams to ensure secure, scalable industrial network architecture
Champion Industry 4.0 concepts: digital twins, virtual commissioning, machine learning integration, and data lakes
Evaluate and implement smart sensors and intelligent devices for condition-based monitoring and self-diagnostics
Ensure compliance with industrial cybersecurity frameworks (ISA/IEC 62443, NIST)
Provide first-line technical support for SigmaNEST nesting software and SimTrans integration across manufacturing sites
Troubleshoot license pool/seat issues, configuration errors, and connectivity between SigmaNEST, SimTrans, and Oracle Fusion
Maintain system stability by monitoring logs, diagnosing failures, and coordinating fixes with IT and vendor support teams
Train engineers, planners, and operators on best practices for using SigmaNEST and SimTrans to minimize downtime
Develop and update user documentation, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides
Write comprehensive specification sheets, RFQs, and technical documentation to guide machine selection and standardization
Develop control standards and glossary documentation to ensure consistency across global operations
Manage the full lifecycle of controls projects including design, procurement, FAT, installation, commissioning, and validation
Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, IT, safety, and manufacturing engineering teams to ensure seamless integration
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Mechatronics, or related field
Minimum 7 years of experience in Controls/Systems Engineering and automation within a manufacturing environment
Strong proficiency in PLC/HMI programming, particularly Rockwell, Siemens, or Beckhoff
Experience with MES/ERP system integration and industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, OPC-UA)
Demonstrated hands-on experience in robotics programming and commissioning (Fanuc, ABB, or Motoman)
Proven capability in machine installation, troubleshooting, and commissioning
Knowledge of IIoT platforms, industrial cybersecurity, and edge computing architectures
Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in a high-mix, fast-paced environment
Preferred
Familiarity with digital twin modeling, SCADA systems, and cloud integration (AWS, Azure IoT, etc.)
Benefits
Skills training
Opportunities for career development
Programs that support physical safety
Benefits and resources to enhance total health and wellbeing
Company
ASTEC
Since 1972, Astec has been connecting communities by providing innovative rock to road solutions for our customers.
1001-5000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
ASTEC 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 (3)
2024 (1)
2023 (2)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Jaco van der Merwe
President & CEO
Jamie Palm
VP, Chief Accounting Officer and Corporate Controller
Company data provided by crunchbase