Controls Engineer

As a Controls Engineer at Fortune Brands Innovations, your role encompasses a variety of key responsibilities. You will oversee project management, implement process improvements, and work on machine design and prototyping. A major part of your job will involve troubleshooting and programming Programmable Logic Controllers, ensuring optimal operation of electrical and control systems, and designing as well as maintaining human-machine interfaces. Additionally, you'll be expected to document processes and manage control systems hardware and software effectively.

To be considered for the Controls Engineer position at Fortune Brands Innovations, candidates should possess a B.S. in Engineering, with a preference for a degree in Electrical Engineering. Moreover, having over five years of experience in instrumentation, electrical, and controls maintenance within a continuous manufacturing environment is essential. This blend of education and hands-on experience will enable you to excel in the role.

At Fortune Brands Innovations, career growth is a priority, especially for roles like Controls Engineer. The company fosters a culture of continuous learning and encourages employee development through various programs. You will have access to mentorship opportunities, training sessions, and challenging projects that inspire innovation. The collaborative environment also means you'll work closely with teams across different disciplines, allowing for comprehensive skill enhancement.

As a Controls Engineer at Fortune Brands Innovations, you can expect a vibrant work culture that values passion and teamwork. The company prides itself on fostering an environment of accountability and transparency, where all employees are encouraged to be their authentic selves. You'll join a diverse group focused on achieving common goals while being adaptable to changes, making it a rewarding place to build your career.

Currently, the Controls Engineer role at Fortune Brands Innovations is designed to be primarily on-site due to the nature of the responsibilities and the hands-on approach necessary in troubleshooting and maintaining control systems. However, the company may offer flexible working arrangements depending on project needs and individual performance. It's best to discuss any remote work possibilities during the interview process.

When asked about your experience with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), provide a detailed account of the types of PLCs you've worked with, such as ControlLogix or PLC5. Highlight specific projects where your programming skills were key to troubleshooting or enhancing production processes. Emphasize any innovative solutions you implemented and the overall impact on efficiency.

Craft a response detailing a specific instance where you successfully led a process improvement initiative. Outline the steps you took, the challenges faced, and how you measured the success of the implementation. Make sure to highlight quantitative results, like increased production throughput or reduced downtime to demonstrate your effectiveness.

When discussing human-machine interface design, emphasize the importance of user experience, functionality, and safety. Talk about your approach to gathering user feedback and incorporating it into design iterations. It's essential to stress your understanding of ergonomics and how they contribute to operational efficiency.

Demonstrate your commitment to professional growth by discussing the resources you utilize for staying informed, such as industry publications, online courses, or attending relevant workshops and conferences. Share specific examples of how newfound knowledge has influenced your work or improved your projects.

Describe your systematic approach to troubleshooting control system failures, which might include reviewing error messages, checking system logs, and conducting hands-on inspections. Emphasize your analytical skills and how you collaborate with team members to identify the root cause efficiently and implement effective solutions.

Highlight your knowledge of safety protocols relevant to electrical systems, such as lockout/tagout procedures, PPE requirements, and following relevant industry standards. Provide examples of how these practices have been vital in ensuring safety in your previous roles.

Discuss the importance of maintaining accurate documentation for control systems. Share examples of how you've organized and updated documentation in previous roles, ensuring that it meets regulatory standards and is easily accessible for team members. Mention any specific software tools you've used to facilitate this process.

Explain your strategy for prioritizing tasks, perhaps using a combination of urgency, impact, and resource availability. Share an example where you successfully managed competing priorities, showcasing your ability to keep projects on track without sacrificing quality.

Anticipate potential challenges such as evolving technologies or tight deadlines. Address how your proactive approach to problem-solving and adaptability equips you to handle these challenges. Highlight your communication skills as a vital tool in navigating and resolving issues effectively.

Craft a thoughtful response that showcases your enthusiasm for Fortune Brands Innovations and how its mission aligns with your career goals. Reference aspects of their work culture, commitment to innovation, or industry position that resonate with you, and explain how you believe you can contribute positively to the organization.