Industrial Controls and Robotics Engineer -- Battery Systems

Job Description

Job DescriptionA day in the life

You start your morning on the manufacturing floor, walking a high‑volume battery line that’s ramping for a new product. A robot cell is ready for SAT, a PLC change request just hit your inbox, and Maintenance flagged an intermittent VFD fault. You’ll move from design review to commissioning to hands‑on troubleshooting—then wrap the day by training operators on a new HMI screen you built.

Reporting to the Manufacturing Manager, you’ll be the go‑to engineer for automated systems—developing, integrating, and continuously improving equipment while partnering across Production, Maintenance, Quality, EHS, Engineering, and external integrators to keep throughput high and scrap low.

What you’ll tackle

• Own automation initiatives from concept through validation, ramp, and steady‑state production support.
• Commission new automated lines and equipment in an active plant; drive FAT, SAT, and production qualification.
• Program, debug, and optimize PLCs (Allen‑Bradley/Siemens), HMIs, VFDs, motion platforms, robotics, and industrial networks.
• Boost OEE by partnering with Operations and Maintenance to raise reliability, uptime, throughput, and process capability.
• Rapidly diagnose complex controls issues in a fast‑moving environment; implement robust fixes.
• Create and maintain electrical schematics, control narratives, code documentation, SOPs, and change controls.
• Coordinate installs and startups with machine builders, systems integrators, and overseas suppliers.
• Lead continuous improvement to cut scrap, shorten cycle time, and optimize labor via automation.
• Ensure systems meet safety, environmental, and regulatory obligations (NFPA/OSHA familiarity preferred).
• Contribute to preventive and predictive maintenance strategies for automated assets.
• Help define automation standards and the long‑term manufacturing technology roadmap.
• Teach production and maintenance teams to run and troubleshoot automated equipment.
• Support capital planning, write equipment specs, and participate in vendor evaluations.
• Must be able to speak, read, and write English fluently.

Your background

• BS in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related technical field.
• 3+ years of hands‑on automation experience in manufacturing, including startup, commissioning, and integration.
• Strong PLC programming/troubleshooting (Allen‑Bradley and/or Siemens), plus HMI/SCADA, robotics, servo/motion, and industrial comms.
• Can read electrical schematics, P&IDs, and technical drawings; skilled in electrical controls troubleshooting.
• Solid project management and organization; comfortable working independently and cross‑functionally.
• Clear written and verbal communication; confident on the factory floor.

Preferred extras

• Experience in battery manufacturing, chemical processing, medical device, electronics, or other highly regulated industries.
• Vision systems, automated inspection, and data collection experience.
• Exposure to MES, ERP connectivity, and Industry 4.0.
• Robotics experience (FANUC, ABB, or Universal Robots).
• NFPA/OSHA and industrial safety knowledge; comfort supporting multi‑shift operations.
• Lean Manufacturing / continuous improvement background.
• Proficiency in spoken and written Mandarin is a plus.

Key strengths

• Troubleshooting and root‑cause analysis
• Automation line startup and commissioning
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Cross‑functional collaboration and technical leadership
• Project execution and manufacturing process optimization
• Safety‑focused decision making

Work environment

• High‑volume battery production setting with frequent interaction with automated equipment and machinery.
• Occasional off‑shift or weekend work during startups or critical production events.
• PPE required in designated areas.

Physical requirements

• Periodic standing, walking, sitting, tool/equipment handling, reaching, stair climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, and clear verbal communication.
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 lbs occasionally.

Compensation note

The pay range for this position reflects multiple factors such as skills, experience, training, certifications/licensure, and broader business needs.

Proficiencies

• PLC troubleshooting
• Preventive maintenance and inspection
• Equipment repair and maintenance

Compliance

*Ultralife Corporationis an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such affirms the right of every person to participate in all aspects of employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, sex, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, contact our Human Resources department via phone at 315- 332-7100. *