Launch Controls Engineer

Launch Controls Engineer – Zeeland, MI DISHER is currently partnering with a leading manufacturer in advanced plastic joining and automation systems that delivers innovative solutions for world-class product launches across multiple industries. Recognized for engineering excellence, continuous improvement, and a strong culture of collaboration, this organization continues to grow as an industry leader in designing and deploying cutting-edge automation technology. What it's like to work here: This position is responsible for designing, programming, installing, and supporting quality designs of PLC based control systems, motion, and electrical systems for custom equipment and machines. This controls engineer will work independently on higher complexity projects, program and debug systems, optimize technology processing and support the field installation and servicing of equipment. What you will get to do:

Develop and implement robust controls and electrical designs in alignment with company standards, project requirements, and customer specifications.

Select appropriate hardware, design control panels, and create detailed electrical schematics, layouts, and bills of materials.

Program, debug, and optimize PLCs, HMIs, and auxiliary control systems to meet desired functionality, performance, and safety standards.

Ensure electrical designs and component purchases align with project budgets and timelines, coordinating closely with mechanical and purchasing teams.

Lead risk assessments, identify potential issues early, and implement mitigation strategies that ensure safe and reliable machine operation.

Manage installation, startup, and site acceptance testing of equipment, providing expert troubleshooting and technical support throughout.

Drive onsite warranty work, retrofits, and upgrades while maintaining strong communication and collaboration with customers.

Collaborate cross-functionally with design, mechanical, and project teams to deliver integrated automation solutions that meet performance goals.

Analyze root causes of issues and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence on current and future projects.

Communicate effectively with suppliers to specify and integrate nonstandard components for unique customer applications.

Manage controls project workflows to ensure on-time, high-quality, and cost-effective execution.

Participate in quoting, design reviews, and continuous improvement activities to enhance quality and efficiency.

Balance customer needs with company objectives to achieve long-term success and customer satisfaction.

What will make you successful:

Bachelor’s degree in engineering (preferred) or equivalent training and certifications.

2-5 years of experience designing custom automation controls and debugging a variety of programming codes.

Must be willing to travel 30-50% of the time to customer sites.

Ability to develop, write, and troubleshoot complex PLC programs.

Strong foundational knowledge of control and electrical system design and its application in automation.

Skilled in designing complete control systems that meet performance, safety, and cost requirements.

Demonstrated experience with risk assessment, safety circuit design, and safety system programming.

Proficient in integrating and programming third-party components and software such as vision systems, barcode readers, leak testers, and laser markers.

Effective communicator with the ability to collaborate with customers, team members, and external partners to solve complex challenges.

Capable of working independently with minimal supervision while managing multiple projects simultaneously.

Strong organizational and planning skills to ensure efficient project execution across multiple controls engineering efforts.

Understanding various plastic joining processes with the ability to develop creative solutions to complex production issues (preferred).

Experience wiring special machines, working with AC and DC motors and gearings, and designing or building electrical panels (preferred).

Proven experience programming robots (Fanuc preferred, but others as applicable) (preferred).

Expert in automation safety (certified) (preferred).

In-depth understanding of NEC and NFPA70E, ANSI, and ISO requirements for machine safety (preferred).