Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer – Ameristar Perimeter Security

Overview

Ameristar Perimeter Security, a leader in the manufacturing of high‑security perimeter protection products, is seeking a skilled Controls Engineer to support automation, process improvement, and equipment reliability across our manufacturing operations. This role is ideal for an engineer who thrives in a fast‑paced production environment and enjoys solving complex automation challenges that directly impact safety, quality, and throughput.

Key Responsibilities

Automation & Controls Development

• Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC‑based control systems (Allen‑Bradley preferred) for new and existing manufacturing equipment.
• Develop and maintain HMI/SCADA interfaces to improve operator usability and process visibility.
• Implement automation upgrades to enhance machine performance, reduce downtime, and improve product consistency.

Equipment Support & Troubleshooting

• Provide hands‑on technical support for electrical, controls, and automation issues on production equipment.
• Diagnose root causes of equipment failures and implement long‑term corrective actions.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams to ensure proper operation and documentation of control systems.

Process Improvement

• Analyze production processes and identify opportunities for automation, optimization, and waste reduction.
• Lead controls‑related continuous improvement projects aligned with safety, quality, and productivity goals.
• Support integration of robotics, sensors, vision systems, and advanced automation technologies.

Project Engineering

• Participate in the design, installation, and commissioning of new manufacturing equipment.
• Work with cross‑functional teams—including mechanical engineering, maintenance, and operations—to ensure successful project execution.
• Develop electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and system documentation.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure all control systems comply with electrical codes, safety standards, and internal engineering guidelines.
• Support risk assessments and implement safety‑related control functions (e.g., safety relays, interlocks, lockout procedures).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3+ years of experience in industrial automation or controls engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with PLC programming (Allen‑Bradley RSLogix/Studio 5000 strongly preferred).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA development (FactoryTalk View or similar).
• Strong understanding of industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, etc.).
• Ability to read and create electrical schematics and control panel designs.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
• Experience with robotics, servo systems, or vision systems is a plus.

Why Join Ameristar Perimeter Security

• Work with a company recognized for innovation and quality in perimeter protection solutions.
• Be part of a collaborative engineering team that values creativity, problem‑solving, and continuous improvement.
• Opportunity to influence automation strategy and shape the future of manufacturing operations.

We are the ASSA ABLOY Group
Our people have made us the global leader in access solutions. In return, we open doors for them wherever they go. With nearly 63,000 colleagues in more than 70 different countries, we help billions of people experience a more open world. Our innovations make all sorts of spaces – physical and virtual – safer, more secure, and easier to access. 

As an employer, we value results – not titles, or backgrounds. We empower our people to build their career around their aspirations and our ambitions – supporting them with regular feedback, training, and development opportunities. Our colleagues think broadly about where they can make the most impact, and we encourage them to grow their role locally, regionally, or even internationally.

As we welcome new people on board, it’s important to us to have diverse, inclusive teams, and we value different perspectives and experiences.