Controls Engineer I

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.

Position Type + Hours

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.

Essential Responsibilities

• 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.