Controls Implementation Engineer (powertrain, Sterling Heights)

Ford Ford · Auto · Sterling Heights, MI +1 · Manufacturing

This role is for a Controls Implementation Engineer at Ford, focusing on the assembly and machining controls for powertrain and vehicle programs. Responsibilities include leading engineering deliverables, implementing standard software and hardware control architectures, managing lessons learned, and orchestrating reviews with suppliers and internal teams. The role requires a Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Software Engineering (or equivalent), 5+ years of controls engineering experience, and applied experience in Structured Control Language (SCL) and Siemens-based software programming.

What you'd actually do

  1. Lead the assembly and machining controls engineering deliverables for VOME & PTO programs, from simultaneous engineering through program launch for all Global PTO sites.
  2. Implement and apply standard software and hardware controls architectures across all programs/plants, following the VOME & PTO specification.
  3. Ensure the identification and capture of lessons learned along with their application to new programs, as well as the impact to existing strategies and standards.
  4. Lead simultaneous engineering meetings with Tier I suppliers to orchestrate controls program reviews with all interested parties.
  5. Participate in management program reviews and represent the controls organization in commodity discussions.

Skills

Required

  • Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering or Software Engineering or equivalent experience
  • 5+ years' experience in controls engineering
  • Applied experience in Structured Control Language (SCL)
  • Extensive software programming experience - Siemens based _highly _preferred

Nice to have

  • FC/FB editing and creation
  • Software programming experience in Rockwell & Siemens - both preferred
  • Direct program experience with assembly, machining, and tooling for Powertrain & Vehicle equipment.
  • Ability to Engineer & Implement controls architectures (hardware/software).
  • Validated programming capabilities with Siemens, Schneider, Bosch PLCs and with CNC/Motion controls systems.
  • Hands-on knowledge and ability to troubleshoot and fix PLC, CNC, robot, vision and other automation issues.
  • Demonstrated skill in cell machining systems and integration of CNC controls, gantries and auxiliary equipment.
  • Knowledge of assembly and machining RFID systems including complexity management, and QOS strategies.
  • Knowledge of international electrical/safety standards (UL, ISO, IEC etc) and familiarity with internal/external safety processes (risk assessments, PSS, coordinated safety etc.).
  • Able to read electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic prints and design electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic prints.
  • Understanding of communication network architectures and field bus protocols.
  • Knowledge of PTME IT standard footprint applications such as FIS, QLSM, QWX, GPTS, QDAS, OBL, PDS etc.
  • Familiarity with program delivery elements from the cost study phase to launch.
  • Process engineering knowledge including GPDS deliverables and plant operational impact of controls designs.
  • Experience interacting with senior management, process engineering, safety, IT, and plant production teams.
  • Self-starter, self-directed with organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Experience using problem-solving skills within FMEA, DOE, DMAIC, 5D, 8D processes

What the JD emphasized

  • Travel up to 80% during peak program times
  • Work off shift, as the need arises, during peak program install and launch times