Electrical Controls Engineer at Fitesa Simpsonville Inc – Washougal, Washington

Fitesa is a global leader in nonwoven fabric solutions, delivering innovative materials to the hygiene, medical, and industrial markets. We are seeking talented individuals to join our rapidly growing team. We are looking for team-oriented, motivated professionals who are committed to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Fitesa offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support the well-being and long-term success of our employees.

Fitesa Benefits Include:

• Paid vacation
• Paid holidays
• 401(k) contribution (4% dollar-for-dollar match + additional 3% company discretionary contribution annually for those who qualify)
• Flexible insurance packages, including medical, vision, and dental, with no waiting period

Summary(What/Why/Coverage)-Main Activities:

Under the general direction of the Maintenance Manager, the Electrical Controls Engineer responsible for installation and technical support of PLC based hardware and software and optimal performance of the electrical tools and equipment.

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field - Required

3–5 years of experience in an automation or controls engineering role - Required

Manufacturing experience - preferred (polymer or related industry a plus)

Core Competencies:

• Teamwork
• Communication
• Decision making
• Initiative
• Works standards
• Ownership
• Organizing

Behavioral Competencies:

• Demonstrated familiarity with manufacturing processes or equipment preferably of polymer industry
• Demonstrated ability to motivate, coach and train others
• Effective Communication skills
• Problem solving/troubleshooting skills
• Statistical Analysis skills with the ability to establish and audit against goals
• Self-motivated and able to work with a minimal amount of daily supervision
• Thorough knowledge of the occupation hazards and corresponding safety precautions necessary for the safe performance of assigned duties.
• Familiar with air and water pollution control technology and federal, state and community regulatory agency workings
• Willing and able to work flexible hours including rotating shifts as needed

Technical Competencies:

• Computer ERP
• Microsoft Office proficient
• Possess human resource skills to relate effectively with people of diverse background

Key Responsibilities (What/How):

• Leads/supports internal Project and Maintenance Engineers, Maintenance Technicians & Production personnel, OEMs, vendors, and contractors to design, install, interface, start up new equipment and process controls including: electrical component selection and approval, electrical design approval, software assessments & modifications, machine acceptance testing and problem identification and resolution.
• Responsible for specifying PLC's, HMI's, servo systems, motors, drives, sensors, vision sensors and data collection and analysis software, based on our companies controls standards criteria. Evaluates electrical equipment from multiple sources and recommends best value for use.
• Assesses, identifies, schematically designs, and makes complex program modifications in DCS's, PLC's logic, HMI's programs, and servo controller logic to improve individual equipment and overall system's performance. May delegate tasks and oversee others completing this work. Provides quality checks to insure correct software development.
• Performs high level troubleshooting, in-depth critical thinking, and utilizes all internal & external resources to solve any electrical, mechanical or process problem. Leads & assists others in troubleshooting machinery, equipment, components, and programs including PLC's HMI's Servo systems and Robotics.
• Leads Controls support during machine installations and upgrades. This includes interfacing auxiliary equipment, identifying and correcting errors in programming and wiring and ensuring vendors and contractors are meeting our needs and expectations.
• Expected to keep abreast of all of the new controls technologies, industry trends, health and safety regulations and standards that affect current operations.
• Proactively identifies opportunities to increase production operation performance, then initiates and oversees projects through completion.
• Provides technical and operating training to production, warehouse, and other personnel as needed. Shares knowledge and techniques with team members and coordinates the training of new personnel.
• Assists in project planning and forecasting as part of budgeting process.
• Provide training of Maintenance Technicians with new control equipment or schedule outside training to enhance troubleshooting skills.
• Develop Maintenance Technician Electrical/Electronic Training Matrix to identify skill gaps, then design training program to address them.
• Organize equipment documentation from OEMs, produced documents and troubleshooting guides.
• Develop Safety Procedures for installed machines Lock-Out /Tag-Out for operations and maintenance personnel.
• All other duties as assigned.

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration.

This position requires frequent lifting and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lifts and/or move up to 25 pounds. The position requires frequent lifting, walks and stands for long periods of time and performs strenuous physical labor under extreme temperatures. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Additional Information:

Eligibility to apply is in accordance with Fitesa hiring policies and practices. Please contact Fitesa HR with questions regarding eligibility.

Fitesa offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. Fitesa is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. Fitesa will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditional upon the successful completion of a background investigation and drug screen. This position is reserved for US candidates only and does not offer international transfer.