Controls Engineer (PLC, Robotics), Automotive Automation

VOLCANIX AUTOMATION is hiring experienced Controls Engineers to support automotive automation projects across Canada, the USA, and Mexico. You’ll program PLC systems, integrate robots and safety devices, and support robotic welding cells, material handling, and general assembly lines from power-on through production launch. The role mixes on-site support in demanding production environments with offline PLC and robot programming, so expect travel during project phases and more desk time during programming.

Location: Greater Barrie, Ontario region (client site). Candidates should live within commuting distance or be willing to relocate temporarily for project phases.

Mandatory requirements: 4+ years of experience in the automotive automation industry (OEM or Tier 1).

About the role

This role covers automotive automation systems including robotic welding cells, material handling, and general assembly. You’ll work on-site in production environments and in offline or remote programming phases. Your work will include power-on, system integration, commissioning, and troubleshooting. Projects follow strict customer PLC and robotics standards, and you’ll often work within pre-approved code templates.

 

Responsibilities

• Program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC systems
• Support production launches, cycle-time improvements, and downtime reduction
• Integrate PLC-controlled systems with robots and safety devices
• Work with welding systems, including spot, projection, MIG, and adhesive application
• Perform system validation, buy-offs, and customer acceptance tests
• Troubleshoot electrical and controls issues on-site
• Assist with robotic equipment commissioning and debugging
• Collaborate with controls, robotics, mechanical, and production teams
  

 

Required Skills

Controls Engineering:

• Strong PLC programming experience
• Platforms: Allen-Bradley (RSLogix 5000, Studio 5000, ControlLogix, CompactLogix), Siemens (TIA Portal, S7), and Mitsubishi (GX Works)
• Experience with industrial networks, including EtherNet/IP, ProfiNet and IO-Link
• Ability to follow mature, customer-specific programming standards

Preferred Experience

• OEM experience (GM, Ford, Stellantis, Honda, Tesla)
• Tier 1 automotive supplier experience
• Automotive automation processes: spot welding, projection welding, MIG welding, adhesive dispensing, material handling, and general assembly
• Vision systems and error proofing (EPP)
• Robot integration experience with FANUC, ABB, or Nachi
• SCADA and HMI experience
  

 

General Requirements

• Willingness to travel for on-site project phases across North America and Mexico. Travel varies by project stage, with lighter periods during offline programming.
• Ability to work independently on customer sites
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Good communication and documentation skills
• Engineering or technical degree preferred
  

 

Work Authorization

We welcome candidates who are:

• Independent Contractor
• Eligible for TN Visa
• Eligible for Canadian Work Permit
  
• Authorized to work and travel across North America & Mexico

 

Additional Information

• Travel and work-related expenses will be covered by the company