Job Details

About Us:

Founded in 1936, Niterra North America, Inc. (Formally NGK Sparkplugs, Inc.), is the world leader in technology, innovation, and world-class quality in designing spark plugs and oxygen sensors. Today, that tradition continues as we transform our organization's business portfolio, expanding our core ceramic technologies, exploring capabilities beyond traditional areas, and challenging ourselves to develop solutions and services that use technologies to resolve social issues while contributing to a sustainable society.

Academic Skills/Knowledge/Experience:

• Education and Certifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or a related field) preferred.

Equivalent experience (5+ years in a related engineering role) will be considered in lieu of a degree.

• Technical Expertise:
  • Advanced experience with PLC and HMI systems, encompassing programming, troubleshooting, and maintenance (e.g., Omron, Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi).
  • Demonstrated proficiency in industrial automation techniques.
  • Thorough understanding of electrical systems, wiring schematics, technical drawings, PLC ladder logic, and control system diagrams.
  • Experience with electrical systems, including sensors and vision systems.
  • Familiarity with industrial networking protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Modbus).
  • Basic experience with AutoCAD or similar 3D modeling software.
  • Basic experience with 3D printing plastic materials.
  • Knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC) principles and their application.
  • Demonstrated capability in project management.
  • General Skills:
    • Proficiency in computer applications, including MS Office/Google Suite, for comprehensive reporting and data analysis.
    • Effective problem-solving abilities and keen attention to detail, alongside excellent time management.
    • Aptitude for managing multiple projects concurrently while meeting deadlines.
    • Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within diverse teams.
    • Highly organized, diplomatic, and adaptable to a dynamic work environment.
    • Maintain confidentiality and exhibit professionalism in high-pressure situations.
    • Capacity for leading training sessions for production staff, technical maintenance personnel, and Engineering Specialists as required.
    • Proficiency in crafting clear, concise reports, including root cause analysis.
    • Ability to monitor and enhance Quality and Production processes.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to see and hear (correctable) and communicate verbally.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted and 75 lbs with assistance.
• Willingness to endure prolonged periods of sitting/standing, repetitive motion, and work in both indoor and outdoor environments.
• Must be able to wear required safety footwear.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and be on-call as required.

Potential Hazards:

• Hazard associated with business operations.

Essential Duties:

• PLC Programming and Troubleshooting:
• Develop, test, and debug PLC and HMI logic to improve machine operations and automation.
• Diagnose and resolve issues related to PLC-controlled machinery, identifying failures in mechanical, pneumatic, and electrical components.
• Integrate new technologies (e.g., sensors, vision systems) into existing PLC-controlled equipment.
• Maintenance and Support:
• Provide advanced maintenance assistance to production lines, collaborating with technical maintenance and engineering specialists as needed.
• Offer engineering-related advice and analysis on equipment specifications and procedures.
• Support preventive and predictive maintenance initiatives and accurately document all repairs and project modifications.
• Collaborate with engineering and maintenance teams on repairs, modifications, and upgrades, communicating new techniques to technical maintenance staff for consistency.
• Project Management and Process Improvement:
• Lead or participate in cross-functional teams for automation projects, process improvements, cost-saving initiatives, and continuous imrovements (Kaizens).
• Develop and execute automation projects to enhance equipment efficiency and functionality, and oversee project scopes and timelines.
• Manage labor costs and productivity for assigned projects, and monitor system performance data to recommend improvements.
• Analyze KPI data to identify new project focus areas to reduce labor costs, improve KPI targets, and meet commitments to problem-solving platforms (Quality Circles, 4DX, etc.).
• Provide detailed reports on automated system changes, including cost savings, efficiency gains, and KPI improvements from completed projects.
• Conduct detailed root cause analysis for process improvements and present findings to management as needed.
• Perform correlations and time studies to analyze process improvement opportunities.
• Training and Collaboration:
  • Train production and maintenance staff on PLC systems and automated equipment as needed.
  • Support training for Engineering Specialists on 3D printers and AutoCAD or similar software, as needed.
• Collaborate with vendors and contractors to troubleshoot and resolve complex automation issues.
• Develop procedures for production, technical maintenance, and engineering to establish uniformity and efficient methods related to their processes or modifications as needed.
• AutoCAD & 3D Printing:
  • Assemble and disassemble designed prototypes or products for testing or modification.
  • Fulfill 3D print orders for our spare part systems or other departments.
  • Maintain an organized 3D printer room, adhering to 5S standards.
  • Utilize the 3D printer to create spare parts or prototypes for improvement projects.
  • Design AutoCAD wiring schematics and parts drawings for projects or other department requests.
• Statistical Process Control (SPC):
• Utilize SPC software for administrative requests from other departments.
• Compile and analyze SPC data for production, technical maintenance, and quality departments as needed.
• Compliance and Safety:
  • Adhere to all company policies and procedures, including those related to IATF, ISO, TISAX, ISMS, and Safety related policies.
• Perform all work in accordance with quality, environmental and regulatory procedures and guidelines.
  • Provide prompt and accurate communication to appropriate personel as required.

Other Duties:

• Performance of household duties, including 5S.
• Promptly report any abnormalities to management.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.
• Overtime and shift changes may be necessary.

Why Work for Niterra:

• Comprehensive Health Benefits: Medical has up to 92% paid coverage with a large contribution to HSA, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance
• Financial Security: Short-term and Long-term disability coverage from start date
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with a generous company match of up to 6% with NO vesting period that starts 30 days after your start date
• Time Off: Generous leave plans that include paid time off, sick time, and both regular and floating holidays

Work-Life Balance: Paid maternity and paternity leave