Job Title: Production Control Systems Engineer
Job Summary:
The Junior Production Control Systems Engineer is responsible for supporting the setup, maintenance, and optimization of production control systems used in manufacturing processes. This includes assisting in the operation of SCADA, PLC, and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), monitoring production schedules, and ensuring the smooth functioning of automated systems. The Junior Engineer will work closely with senior engineers to optimize workflows, troubleshoot issues, and improve the overall efficiency of production operations. This role offers significant hands-on learning and development opportunities in production control and automation systems.
Key Responsibilities:
Production Control Systems Support:
- Assist in the installation, setup, and configuration of SCADA, PLC, and MES systems used to monitor and control production processes.
- Support the integration of control systems with production equipment, ensuring seamless operation across manufacturing lines.
- Monitor production schedules and materials to ensure alignment with operational requirements and production targets.
SCADA and PLC Systems Monitoring and Optimization:
- Monitor SCADA and PLC systems to ensure smooth operation and troubleshoot minor issues that may arise during production.
- Assist in testing and optimizing PLC programs to ensure they meet production requirements.
- Support senior engineers in troubleshooting and resolving PLC/SCADA-related issues, minimizing downtime.
Production Scheduling and Coordination:
- Help coordinate production schedules, ensuring all resources (materials, machinery, and personnel) are available and utilized efficiently.
- Assist in adjusting production schedules based on real-time data and changing production priorities.
- Support production teams by providing real-time updates and addressing any delays or issues with production flow.
Data Collection and Analysis:
- Collect data from production control systems, machinery, and production lines to monitor performance and identify areas for improvement.
- Assist in analyzing production data to detect trends, performance issues, or bottlenecks.
- Provide data-driven insights and recommendations for process improvements to senior engineers and production teams.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting:
- Perform routine maintenance on production control systems and equipment to ensure they are functioning correctly.
- Assist in identifying and resolving technical issues in control systems, ensuring production continuity.
- Document maintenance activities and assist in maintaining records for audits and compliance.
Collaboration and Communication:
- Collaborate with production, maintenance, quality assurance, and engineering teams to ensure smooth and efficient manufacturing operations.
- Provide support to operators and production teams, helping them use production control systems effectively and addressing any minor technical issues.
- Participate in daily meetings with cross-functional teams to discuss production goals, challenges, and solutions.
Learning and Development:
- Develop technical expertise in production control systems, SCADA, PLC programming, and manufacturing automation.
- Participate in on-the-job training and attend relevant workshops to enhance skills in production control and systems integration.
- Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in production control and automation systems.
Key Focus Areas:
- Production Control Systems Support: Assist in the configuration, maintenance, and operation of production control systems like SCADA, PLC, and MES.
- SCADA/PLC Monitoring: Help ensure the smooth functioning of SCADA/PLC systems, optimizing them for better performance.
- Production Scheduling and Coordination: Support scheduling, tracking, and coordinating resources in the production environment.
- Data Collection and Performance Analysis: Assist with collecting and analyzing performance data to optimize production efficiency.
- Learning and Skill Development: Continuously develop technical expertise in automation, production control, and manufacturing systems.
Skills and Knowledge Required:
- Basic understanding of production control systems, including SCADA, PLC, and MES.
- Familiarity with automated manufacturing processes and control systems (e.g., robots, conveyors, production lines).
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to identify performance trends and areas for improvement.
- Basic problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot minor system issues.
- Good communication and teamwork skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
- Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new technologies and processes in a dynamic environment.
Educational Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.
- Basic coursework or certifications in PLC programming, SCADA systems, or production control systems is a plus.
Experience:
- 1-2 years of experience in production control, automation, or industrial control systems. Relevant internships or academic projects will be considered an asset.
- Familiarity with manufacturing systems, automation technologies, or production control is beneficial but not required.
Tools and Technologies:
- Exposure to SCADA systems and PLC programming software (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell, Mitsubishi) is advantageous.
- Familiarity with manufacturing execution systems (MES) or production scheduling software is beneficial.
- Basic understanding of data collection tools, analysis software (e.g., Excel), and performance monitoring systems.
Other Requirements:
- Eagerness to learn and grow in the field of production control and automation.
- Ability to follow instructions and work effectively under the supervision of senior engineers.
- Commitment to safety, quality standards, and operational efficiency in all tasks and activities.
- Ability to work well in a team and collaborate with various departments to meet production goals.