Work is Sweet!
‘Quality without Compromise’ is not just a motto at See’s Candies. It is the most important ingredient in our recipe for success. See’s Candies has been in business since 1921 and maintains a reputation for producing the highest quality candy and providing superior customer service.
See’s is a leader in the confectionary industry with over 250 retail shops across the USA. We are seeking friendly, enthusiastic individuals who are passionate about providing great customer service.
Job Description Summary:
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Controls Engineer to join our team in the confectionary manufacturing industry. This role is critical to ensure the smooth operation and optimization of automated systems, electrical equipment, and control processes across our manufacturing facility. The ideal candidate will have experience in industrial control systems, automation, and troubleshooting in a food manufacturing environment, and will work closely with engineering and production teams to improve machine performance, reduce downtime, and ensure the efficiency and safety of our production processes.
The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $135K - $155K per year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Job Description:
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, implement, and maintain control systems for automated manufacturing processes, including production lines, packaging systems, and material handling systems specific to confectionary production.
- Develop and troubleshoot control systems including PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), HMI (Human-Machine Interface), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), and DCS (Distributed Control Systems).
- Collaborate with the production and engineering teams to identify opportunities for automation, efficiency improvements, and process optimization in manufacturing operations.
- Program, calibrate, and configure control systems for new and existing equipment and systems to ensure optimal functionality and performance.
- Perform routine system diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repairs to resolve issues related to control systems, electrical components, and automation equipment.
- Conduct root cause analysis on equipment failures and recommend corrective and preventive actions to reduce downtime and improve equipment reliability.
- Support the installation and commissioning of new equipment, systems, and technology, ensuring integration with existing control systems and processes.
- Implement and maintain system documentation, including control system drawings, manuals, standard operating procedures, and safety protocols.
- Monitor and analyze control system performance data to identify trends and make adjustments to improve efficiency, quality, and production speed.
- Ensure compliance with industry standards, including food safety regulations, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and safety standards, while maintaining system reliability.
- Train and support maintenance and production teams on the operation and troubleshooting of control systems and automation equipment.
- Participate in continuous improvement efforts to enhance system performance, energy efficiency, and product quality.
- Maintain relationships with corporate IT to ensure that security is a core component of all production solutions and control system integrations.
- Develop, implement, and maintain data acquisition systems to ensure accurate, efficient, and reliable collection of real-time production data.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or comparable experience.
- 7-10 years of experience working with control systems, automation, and PLC programming in a manufacturing or industrial environment, preferably within the food or confectionary industry.
- Strong knowledge of PLC programming languages (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.) and HMI/SCADA systems.
- Experience with industrial control system design, including control panels, sensors, motors, drives, and instrumentation.
- Familiarity with electrical schematics, control wiring, and panel design.
- Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve issues quickly in a high-production environment.
- Knowledge of food manufacturing processes, GMP, and safety regulations (e.g., FDA, HACCP) is a plus.
- Proficiency with control system design software, simulation tools, and data analysis software.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage projects effectively.
Desired Skills:
- Experience with process optimization and control in high-speed manufacturing environments, particularly in confectionary or food production.
- Familiarity with robotics, vision systems, and packaging automation is a plus.
- Experience in energy management and improving operational efficiency through automation.
- Ability to design and implement preventive maintenance strategies for control systems.
- Knowledge of industry-specific regulatory compliance requirements, including food safety and quality standards.
Working Conditions:
- Full-time position with occasional overtime depending on project needs.
- Some travel may be required for equipment installations, training, or troubleshooting.
- Dynamic work environment with a focus on innovation and continuous improvement.
- Collaborative team culture with opportunities for professional growth in the food manufacturing industry.
The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, in addition to a full range of generous medical, financial, and/or other benefits (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave), dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
See’s is an EOE
See’s will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable local, state or federal law (including San Francisco Ordinance #131192 and Los Angeles Municipal Code 189.00)