PLC Specialist - Equipment Engineer

This posting reflects a current vacancy

NextStar Energy (NSE) is Canadas first large-scale battery manufacturing facility. Located in Windsor, Ontario, NextStar Energy is dedicated to the development and innovation of sustainable and efficient energy solutions, empowering the future of mobility.

At NextStar Energy, youre joining a team where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth are at the heart of everything we do. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a focus on your well-being. We provide customized training programs and select global learning opportunities to support your professional development and career growth. Your contributions are valued, and we are creating a company-wide rewards program to recognize them. Our leaders foster a supportive, trusting environment where your voice is heard. We believe that, together, we can achieve more.

We are currently seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Equipment Engineer (PLC Specialist) to join our Cell Equipment Team.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve complex issues related to PLC-controlled systems and automation equipment on the production floor.
• Verify, modify, and update Siemens PLC programs as required for equipment improvements, production changes, and reliability initiatives.
• Update, customize, and troubleshoot HMI screens and interfaces to support daily operational and process requirements.
• Support the successful commissioning, testing, setup, and validation of all PLC and HMI-related changes, upgrades, and new equipment deployments.
• Develop detailed PLC troubleshooting guides, standard work instructions, and technical documentation to support the maintenance team.
• Create and administer technical training programs regarding PLC troubleshooting and design for technicians and engineers with varying experience levels.
• Help reduce repeat equipment failures by performing root cause analysis, documenting findings, and leading employee training initiatives.
• Maintain organized, up-to-date records of PLC backups, code revisions, HMI updates, and change management documentation.
• Participate actively in cross-functional team meetings where specialized PLC and automation expertise is required.
• Ensure all PLC systems and program modifications strictly comply with applicable Canadian safety standards, including ESA and MOL requirements for machine safety and safety PLCs.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on driving automation reliability, controls optimization, and overall equipment performance.
• Collaborate closely with maintenance, engineering, operations, and external equipment vendors to resolve technical issues and implement line improvements.

Minimum Requirements

• Possess a college diploma or higher in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Mechatronics, Industrial Controls, or a closely related field.
• Have a minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience working with Siemens PLC systems in an industrial automation environment.
• Maintain a solid understanding of electrical schematics and industrial control drawings.
• Demonstrate familiarity with Canadian industrial safety standards, including ESA and MOL requirements regarding machine safety and safety PLCs.
• Maintain a basic working proficiency in English to handle daily operational tasks and interact with team members.
• Demonstrate strong technical troubleshooting, analytical problem-solving skills, and a data-driven approach to root cause analysis.
• Exhibit excellent attention to detail alongside strong organizational abilities to manage complex technical documentation and handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Work effectively and collaboratively within cross-functional engineering and manufacturing teams under a self-motivated, continuous improvement mindset.
• Hold legal authorization to work in Canada.
• Maintain flexibility to support varying work schedules and operational requirements as needed.
• Demonstrate proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven project experience in the full development, setup, and commissioning of new industrial automation equipment is highly desirable.
• Possess a strong working knowledge of Mitsubishi PLC systems alongside the required Siemens expertise.
• Demonstrate strong verbal and written communication skills to clearly convey complex technical concepts, and show comfort when training, mentoring, or coaching personnel with varying levels of experience.

Thank you for your interest in our company and the opportunity to join our team. We look forward to receiving your application and getting to know you better!

NextStar Energy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, religion, or veteran status. NextStar Energy is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.