Controls Engineer

Lead Controls EngineerBuild the Future of Thermoforming ControlsThermoforming Support GroupFounded in 2025, Thermoforming Support Group (TSG) provides specialized support and engineering services for thermoforming manufacturers worldwide. Our team has delivered thousands of hours of field service and technical support, helping customers maximize uptime, improve productivity, and achieve production goals.With over 184 years of combined thermoforming experience, specializing in IRAD and TSL equipment, we provide parts support, engineering solutions, field service, training, and equipment optimization. As a growing company, we're investing heavily in innovation and developing the next generation of thermoforming control technology.The OpportunityWe are seeking an experienced Lead Controls Engineer to spearhead the development of a new controls platform for thermoforming equipment. This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a major technology initiative from concept through deployment and establish the controls architecture that will drive our future products.You'll work closely with company leadership, direct internal engineering resources, coordinate with third-party development teams, and lead the creation of a robust, scalable, and maintainable controls ecosystem.If you're passionate about automation, motion control, and turning ideas into industry-leading solutions, we'd like to hear from you.What You'll DoLead the architecture, design, and implementation of a next-generation controls platform for thermoforming machinery.Design, program, test, and optimize PLC and HMI applications.Develop and integrate motion control systems, servo applications, and distributed I/O networks.Establish standards, best practices, and engineering processes for controls development.Guide and mentor internal engineers while coordinating external engineering resources as required.Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation, electrical, and machine control challenges.Validate system performance, reliability, safety, and maintainability.Support field implementation, commissioning, and continuous improvement efforts.Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate customer and business requirements into innovative automation solutions.QualificationsRequired ExperienceExtensive experience in industrial automation and machine controls engineering.Strong background in process control design, loop tuning, and optimization.Proficiency with PLC and HMI programming using IEC 61131-3 languages, including: Structured Text (ST)Ladder Logic (LD)Function Block Diagram (FBD)Experience with industrial motion control systems, including: Servo systemsVFDs and drivesMulti-axis coordinated motionStrong knowledge of industrial networking and communication protocols, including: EtherNet/IPEtherCATModbus TCPProfinetHands-on experience with industrial electrical systems, panel design, instrumentation, and schematics.Proven troubleshooting skills in complex electro-mechanical systems.Preferred QualificationsBachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical discipline.Experience developing machine control platforms or standardized automation architectures.Experience leading engineering teams and managing technical projects.Familiarity with thermoforming, plastics processing, packaging, or related manufacturing industries.Why Join TSG?At Thermoforming Support Group, we're building more than a company—we're building the future of thermoforming technology. We believe great people deserve to share in the success they help create.What We Offer✅ Competitive salary✅ Health insurance✅ Simple IRA with company match✅ Travel time compensated at hourly rates✅ Performance-based bonus program tied to company growth✅ Paid birthday off every year✅ Opportunity to shape the future direction of our products and technology✅ Direct impact in a growing, entrepreneurial organizationJoin UsIf you're looking for a role where your ideas matter, your technical leadership is valued, and your work will directly influence the future of an industry, we'd love to talk with you.Apply today and become a key part of building the next generation of thermoforming controls.