Control Engineer

Job Title: Control Engineer

Job Description

The Control Engineer provides advanced automation and controls support for high-speed aseptic filling and food and beverage processing lines. This role focuses on maintaining and optimizing PLCs, HMIs, robotics, motion control, industrial networks, and MES/data collection systems while ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient operation of complex production equipment.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support for machines and systems including safety controllers, PLCs, HMIs, robots, motion control, measurement systems, instrumentation, material handling systems, industrial networks, and computer hardware/software for MES and data collection.

• Apply and adhere to established plant electrical controls standards in all design, modification, and troubleshooting activities.

• Work within the Change Management Process to implement, monitor, and continuously improve automation and control initiatives.

• Schedule, coordinate, and manage upgrades, overhauls, and conversions of aseptic filling and process lines to improve performance and reliability.

• Provide training to operations and maintenance personnel on the operation and maintenance of aseptic filling and process lines.

• Participate in after-hours support for the engineering group on a rotating basis to resolve urgent equipment and controls issues.

• Collaborate with operations and technical teams to define project objectives and translate them into practical automation and controls solutions that optimize process performance.

• Partner with technical service providers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to implement projects and drive successful outcomes.

• Support installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of processing and packaging equipment, including providing after-hours assistance as needed to maintain project timelines and production uptime.

• Use strong cause-effect analytical skills to diagnose and resolve complex electrical, controls, and automation problems.

• Communicate effectively and professionally with peers, internal stakeholders, external partners, and customers to ensure alignment and clear understanding of technical issues and project status.

• Promote and maintain an inclusive work environment by working effectively with diverse teams and respecting different perspectives and backgrounds.

Essential Skills

• Associates degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited college or equivalent technical experience.

• Minimum 25 years of experience in technical or operational assignments within automation, controls, or related engineering roles.

• Strong cause-effect analytical and troubleshooting abilities for electrical and controls systems.

• Proven ability to collaborate with operations and technical teams to define project objectives and implement solutions that optimize process performance.

• Experience working with technical service providers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and driving project results.

• Self-motivated with strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Evidence of ongoing self-development and continuous learning.

• Hands-on experience with Rockwell Automation PLCs and HMIs.

• Experience in processing and packaging equipment installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting, including after-hours support when required.

• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and contribute to an inclusive, respectful work culture.

• Practical experience with automation, electrical troubleshooting, robotics, and controls engineering.

• Experience with PLC programming and electrical design in an industrial environment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited college.

• Industry experience in food and beverage processing, including bottling operations.

• Specific, in-depth technical knowledge of Tetra Pak and/or Stork aseptic filling equipment.

• Knowledge of detailed electrical and mechanical operation and optimization of food process and packaging systems.

• Minimum 2 years of experience in aseptic processing and packaging systems.

• Experience with Beckhoff Automation PLCs and HMIs.

• Working knowledge of robotics and robotic integration in production environments.

• Experience with motion control systems, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and safety hardware.

• Hands-on experience with vision inspection systems such as Cognex and Keyence.

• Knowledge of NFPA 70, NFPA 70E, and NFPA 78 electrical standards.

• Proficiency with AutoCAD software for creating and modifying electrical schematics.

• Familiarity with FDA rules and regulations related to food processing and packaging.

• Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and Rockwell platforms.

• Ability to read, interpret, and develop electrical schematics.

Why Work Here?

You join a rapidly growing operation with significant capital investment and clear opportunities for advancement. The facility handles high production volumes and has a substantial capital improvement budget approved, reflecting a strong commitment to modernization, technology, and long-term growth. The organization actively promotes from within, offering a clear path for professional development, expanded responsibilities, and career progression in a dynamic, high-impact engineering environment.

Work Environment

The work environment is very fast paced and centered around high-volume food and beverage processing and bottling operations. You will work with advanced automation technologies including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, motion control, vision systems, and industrial networks, as well as MES and data collection systems. The role involves supporting aseptic filling and process lines, participating in equipment upgrades and overhauls, and occasionally providing after-hours support to keep production running smoothly. The setting is a modern industrial facility with ongoing capital improvements, where collaboration with operations, maintenance, and external technical partners is part of daily work.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Lathrop, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $110000.00 - $135000.00/yr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

12% annual bonus structure, benefits offered on formal offer letter

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Lathrop,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 23, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.