Principal Controls Engineer

This position is responsible for providing engineering support during weekdays to manufacturing areas.  Due to the nature of this position, a very high degree of initiative, collaboration and communication are required.  The candidate is responsible for project management and engineering support for the plant production departments and facilities.  This position also provides technical guidance to other engineering staff, engineering and maintenance technicians, maintenance supervisors, and others as required.  The Principal Controls Engineer is tasked with providing analysis of plant manufacturing capacity, process optimization and automation, VIP identification and implementation, process validation planning\execution using lean manufacturing techniques and other problem-solving tools.  In-depth knowledge of machine design, CAD or PLC Programming, fixing and project management required.  

What you will be doing

• Develops or participates in the development of solutions to problems specific to assigned project.

• Participates in continuous improvement projects.

• Works with manufacturing and other functional groups on manufacturing regulatory compliance issues.

• Writes and/or performs, and reports on validation activities. 

• Designs and performs routine testing, project experiments, analysis of data and reports results.

• Performs engineering studies on new equipment to resolve accurate settings, control points, etc. including data gathering during start up and test batches.

• Initiates new or revisions of protocols/operating instructions specific to the project.

• Performs NCR/CAPA investigations and tasks.

• Lead and implement change control activities related to equipment.

• Performs work assignments within production department that include training and technical support.

• Assists service department as an SME and leads equipment and/or process solving efforts as needed.

• Interprets, implements, and recommends modifications to operating policies where appropriate.

• Establish and control capital operating budgets for projects.

• Assist in the design, installation and start-up of new equipment and systems as required.

• Perform technical trouble shooting and implement problem resolution for existing and new equipment/systems.

• Coordinate with multi-functional teams (internal and external) on projects relating to existing and new product lines.

• Provide leadership, direction, and expertise for complex projects.

• Provide leadership and drive innovation within the plant.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

• The person in this position needs to frequently move between the office and the production floor.

• Must be able to work in a clean room environment without daylight / windows.

• Occasionally ascends/descends a ladder to access machinery.

What you will bring

• BS in Engineering required (Electrical, Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering preferred)

• 8 – 10 years' validated experience in a similar role

• Experience in a regulated industry is a plus.

• Strong accountability and ownership.

• Strong leadership and project management skills.

• Knowledgeable in the practice and application of Lean Manufacturing.

• Knowledgeable in the practice and execution of validation protocols.

• Technical Software Skills Preferred:

• PLC: Allen-Bradley Control Logix, AB500, Safety PLCs

• HMI: Allen-Bradley

• Communication: Understanding of TCP/IP networks, RS-232 interfaces, Profibus communication, Fieldbus and HSSB

• Electrical: Hands on solving and diagnostic skills, understanding of Category 3 Safety Systems, E-Plan P8, AutoCAD, ability to read /draw schematics

• Familiarity with drives (such as servo and VFD) motion control, encoders, hydraulics, and pneumatics

• Robotics: Fanuc, Yaskawa

• Vision Systems: Cognex, Keyence

• Programming (Bonus): C#, C++, VB, SQL Server

We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. At Baxter, we are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices. The estimated base salary for this position is $104,000 - $143,000 annually. The estimated range is meant to reflect an anticipated salary range for the position. We may pay more or less than of the anticipated range based upon market data and other factors, all of which are subject to change. Individual pay is based on upon location, skills and expertise, experience, and other relevant factors. This position may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses. For questions about this, our pay philosophy, and available benefits, please speak to the recruiter if you decide to apply and are selected for an interview.