Controls Engineer I

Description

Kocher + Beck USA is seeking a Controls Engineer 1 to design and develop new automation and control systems for our Lenexa, KS manufacturing facility. This early-career engineering role combines controls software and electrical design with hands-on system integration, while improving the safety and reliability of existing equipment. The ideal candidate is analytical and design-oriented, enjoys solving problems across mechanical, electrical, and software systems, and creates the long-term automation roadmap.

Permanent full-time, salaried position. Core hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., 40+ hours per week, with overtime as needed to support production and project schedules. This role combines office-based engineering and design work with hands-on manufacturing-floor work during installation, testing, troubleshooting, and commissioning. Occasional travel may be required for equipment training, vendor support, or installation projects.

• →Work with Production, Engineering, Maintenance, and Quality to improve equipment performance and reliability.
• →Select, configure, and integrate PLCs, I/O, sensors, vision systems, drives, servos, robotics, motion controls, and safety components.
• →Develop PLC and HMI programs for new machines.
• →Create, modify, and maintain electrical, safety, and controls documentation using AutoCAD Electrical or similar.
• →Install, test, commission, and troubleshoot automated equipment.
• →Train operators and maintenance personnel on automated equipment.
• →Troubleshoot equipment failures, perform root cause analysis, implement corrective actions, and document changes in the CMMS.
• →Calibrate and maintain sensors, instrumentation, and vision systems.
• →Follow OSHA, LOTO, arc-flash, and company safety requirements.

Requirements

• →Experience programming PLCs and automation controls using Structured Text (ST) in accordance with IEC 61131-3.
• →Experience with Beckhoff controls or Siemens TIA Portal.
• →Working knowledge of robotics, servo systems, motion control, motor controls, AC/DC circuits, sensors, instrumentation, and industrial automation hardware.
• →Ability to read electrical schematics and mechanical drawings, use AutoCAD or similar CAD software, and work with diagnostic tools such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, and micrometers.
• →Practical understanding of how mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and software components interact within an integrated automation system.
• →Strong analytical, troubleshooting, communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to work independently and respond to urgent equipment issues.
• →Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work standing, kneeling, climbing, or at heights when required.

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Mechatronics.
• Professional, academic, or project experience taking automation systems from concept through commissioning, including hardware selection.
• Experience with 480V three-phase electrical systems, machine vision, industrial networks, or advanced motion control.
• Experience developing machine safety concepts, risk-reduction measures, or controls standards.
• Experience using a CMMS.
• Experience in precision tooling, narrow-web printing, converting equipment manufacturing, or a similar industrial manufacturing environment.

Apply at www.kbapply.com. For questions, please email recruiting@kocher-beck.com or call 913-825-0434.