Controls Engineer - Robotics

As a Controls Engineer - Robotics at JMA, you will be responsible for a variety of tasks including developing and maintaining PLC programming, creating HMI interfaces, and programming robots like FANUC and UR. You’ll also lead technicians in equipment builds, coordinate with maintenance for minimal production disruptions, and support troubleshooting efforts in production lines. Your role is crucial in ensuring operational efficiency and mitigating risks through close collaboration with design teams and applying your technical knowledge to enhance system functions.

To apply for the Controls Engineer - Robotics position at JMA, you need a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Computer, or Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Alternatively, if you have an Associate degree with over 5 years of relevant experience in industrial automation, you are also encouraged to apply. Candidates should showcase excellent problem-solving and communication skills, along with a strong background in industrial automation, making this position suitable for seasoned professionals looking to advance their careers.

JMA is committed to employee development and offers numerous resources to its Controls Engineers - Robotics. This includes access to training programs, hands-on projects, and collaborative opportunities within cross-disciplinary teams. The company encourages innovative thinking and provides avenues for professional growth, empowering you to self-direct your projects as you advance your career while contributing to meaningful advancements in technology.

The work environment for a Controls Engineer - Robotics at JMA is energetic and collaborative. You will work with a multi-disciplined team dedicated to transforming complex challenges into streamlined solutions. With a focus on innovation and excellence, team members are encouraged to actively participate in brainstorming sessions and share their insights to foster a culture of continuous improvement. JMA embraces diversity and values every employee's unique contributions, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

As a Controls Engineer - Robotics at JMA, you can expect a competitive annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $80,000. Your specific pay will depend on factors such as your relevant experience, skills, and the complexity of the role. JMA also provides an extensive benefits package, ensuring you have the support you need for a healthy work-life balance and the opportunity to succeed within the organization.

In preparing for this question, illustrate your hands-on experience with PLC programming, highlighting specific systems you have worked with such as Logix5000 or Logix500. Discuss any projects where you developed solutions that improved efficiency or resolved issues. Be sure to emphasize not only technical skills but also your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios.

Here, focus on specific instances where you encountered obstacles while developing or maintaining HMI interfaces like FactoryTalk or Ignition. Discuss the steps you took to troubleshoot the issue, cooperate with teammates, and implement effective solutions. Demonstrating your analytical and collaborative approach will show your readiness for the role.

Share a story where you took the lead in an equipment build project, outlining your responsibilities, the team structure, and the outcome. Focus on your leadership skills, communication styles, and how your guidance contributed to the successful assembly and functionality of the equipment, ensuring you showcase your ability to manage both people and projects.

Explain your systematic approach to troubleshooting by discussing the steps you would take from initial assessment to implementing a fix. Highlight your ability to stay calm under pressure, your analytical thinking, and your experience in providing timely solutions that minimize downtime. Share examples of past troubleshooting scenarios to add credibility to your strategy.

In your answer, recall a specific instance where you successfully devised a sequence of operations for a piece of equipment. Describe the methodology you used to gather requirements, your collaborative approach with the design team, and how the sequence you created improved operational outcomes. This would demonstrate your technical proficiency and commitment to enhancing processes.

Discuss your familiarity with risk assessments, especially in relation to developing control circuits or programs to mitigate risks. Use examples from your past experiences where you identified potential hazards and implemented strategies to reduce them, illustrating your proactive mindset in ensuring safety and compliance within the manufacturing environment.

Your response should convey your organizational skills and time management strategies. Talk about techniques you use to prioritize tasks, such as creating detailed plans or employing project management tools. Providing examples of how you've successfully balanced multiple projects under tight deadlines will showcase your ability to effectively handle the demands of a fast-paced role.

Here, you can highlight the importance of teamwork and collaboration in the role of a Controls Engineer - Robotics. Discuss how interdisciplinary communication with design, maintenance, and production teams fosters innovation and efficiency. Illustrate how collaborative efforts have led to successful outcomes in past projects, underscoring your commitment to collective success.

In answering this question, express your enthusiasm for JMA's mission in advancing wireless technology and your passion for being at the forefront of breakthroughs in 5G. Talk about how the company's culture of innovation and commitment to diversity aligns with your personal values and career goals. Tailoring your response to reflect knowledge of JMA’s activities underscores your genuine interest in the position.

Convey your dedication to continuous learning and process improvement. Discuss ways you've sought feedback, engaged in professional development opportunities, or implemented new techniques and technologies that enhance engineering practices. Providing concrete examples and talking about your growth mindset will resonate well with interviewers focused on innovation.