Electrical Controls & Instrumentation Engineer - Battery Industry

Location: Tennessee | Full-Time | Onsite Required A global leader in high-performance battery separator materials is seeking a Controls & Instrumentation Engineer to support critical equipment, automation, and continuous improvement efforts across its Tennessee plant. This role plays a key part in driving system reliability and operational uptime across high-speed, high-volume industrial processes. Key Responsibilities: Lead the maintenance and modernization of plant automation, control systems, and electrical instrumentation. Analyze performance indicators such as uptime, MTBF, PM compliance, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Troubleshoot mission-critical equipment (e.g., E-Beam/LFE systems, tension controls, winders/rewinders, mixing and weighing systems). Partner with maintenance supervisors and technicians to optimize daily schedules, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting. Develop and execute annual capital improvement (CAPEX) plans related to controls and instrumentation. Support spare parts management and documentation of calibration, PMs, and commissioning procedures. Serve as the liaison between IT and plant for network and automation system issues. Participate in after-hours support protocols and weekend rotations as needed. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Electronic Engineering. Proficient in AutoCAD and Microsoft Office. 5+ years of hands-on experience in industrial controls, automation, and instrumentation in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Strong background in Siemens PLC programming (required); knowledge of AB, Automation Direct, and Mitsubishi is a plus. Skilled in HMI development (WinCC, Wonderware or equivalent), and integration with data historians. Working knowledge of AC/DC/VFD motor drives, load cells, extrusion systems, temperature/pressure controllers, and tension systems. Familiar with P&ID diagrams, loop drawings, wiring schematics, and logic diagrams. Networking knowledge including ProfiNet, Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet, TCP/IP protocols. Previous experience with extrusion, injection molding, or web handling is strongly preferred. Demonstrated ability to lead, prioritize, and collaborate with cross-functional teams in maintenance and production.