AI Controls Engineer

We have a growing hardware and software focused department that builds and develops smart vision solutions for quality assurance in manufacturing environments. Based in Waterloo, Ontario, this product team mploys a talented and dynamic team of R&D and Applications Engineers who provide unique engineering development activities in design, prototyping and testing to drive new technology development, build innovative products, and maintain and support our deployed solutions. As a Controls Engineer you will be a backbone in revolutionizing the automated inspection industry through cutting-edge technology. Your role will span across Electrical Design, PLC & HMI Programming, Robotics Programming, and Vision Systems Programming, working on a diverse range of automated inspection equipment. You will also have the unique opportunity to integrate traditional industrial automation with Artificial Intelligence. Your ability to adapt and cross-functionally support our engineering efforts will be essential. You will be part of our dynamic team from the initial design phase through to deployment, providing invaluable technical support to both internal teams and external customers. This role requires occasional travel for customer site installations and commissioning. With your expertise, you'll help us achieve our company goals in Safety, Quality, Cost, and Delivery, ensuring we continue to excel in automated inspection solutions. Reports to : Director of Engineering Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in Engineering Technology (Electrical, Controls, or Mechatronics is preferred) Minimum of 5-7 years engineering & design work experience Proficient in PLC & HMI programming, with experience across multiple PLC brands to demonstrate flexibility and depth of control systems knowledge (experience with Mitsubishi, Keyence, or Allen Bradley is a strong asset) Skilled in AutoCAD or Solidworks Electrical, and interpreting electrical schematics Well versed in the Canadian Electrical Code, with a focus on Industrial practices Experience with Robotics and Robot programming (including both collaborative and traditional robots such as FANUC) Experience with robot simulation tools such as FANUC Roboguide Experience with discrete electronics and PCBA design is an asset Experience with programming languages such as Python and C for data handling, automation scripting, or embedded system integration is an asset Experience with CSA and PSHSR requirements for safeguarding of equipment is an asset Experience with industrial Cameras, Vision systems, or AI-based vision applications is an asset Job Responsibilities: Lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams on projects through the design, build, test, and commissioning phases Spearhead the design, programming, testing, and deployment of PLC & HMI programs, Electrical Panels, and Robotics Applications Merge insights from Optical Engineers and AI Software Developers to integrate electrical, electronic, and control systems — including discrete electronic components and PCBA systems — with AI-enabled inspection hardware to deliver cohesive, cutting-edge solutions Collaborate with machine builders and contractors to verify hardware & software functionality Schedule and lead ESA and PSHSR Inspections to ensure machine conformity Deploy machinery at customer facilities, test and commission the projects on-site, and provide post-installation support and troubleshooting Travel for customer and business requirements as needed Personal Skills: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills Self-motivated, resourceful, and well organized Self-starter with a proactive, driven mindset Independent worker capable of taking initiative and ownership of tasks Effectively manage multiple priorities while meeting project deadlines Works well alone or as part of a team Flexible with good time management Strong technical, analytical, and troubleshooting skills Our Expectations: Company Standards: Uphold company policies and integrity. Be a champion of our Philosophy. Follow all safety procedures & instructions. Active involvement in company and department goals. Follow "5S" principles, quality, environmental, and health & safety systems. Interact with all working peers in a respectful and pleasant manner. Please note: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the associate for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.