What you’ll do

Become part of an iconic brand that is set to revolutionize the electric pick-up truck & rugged SUV marketplace by achieving the following:

• Develop and modify PLC programs using industry-standard programming languages to control and monitor automated machinery and production processes. Ensure programs are optimized for efficiency, reliability, and ease of maintenance.
• Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and automation specialists to integrate PLCs with other control systems, such as Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, and robotics, to create seamless and synchronized manufacturing workflows.
• Configure PLC hardware components, including input/output modules, communication interfaces, and networking protocols, to meet the requirements of specific manufacturing applications. Ensure compatibility and interoperability with existing equipment and systems.
• Identify and resolve issues with PLCs, including programming errors, communication failures, hardware malfunctions, and sensor/actuator discrepancies. Utilize diagnostic tools, software utilities, and technical documentation to diagnose problems and implement corrective actions promptly.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks, such as backup and restore procedures, firmware updates, and system backups, to prevent downtime and ensure the long-term reliability of PLCs. Plan and execute hardware/software upgrades and migrations to enhance system performance and functionality.
• Create and maintain documentation, including PLC programs, wiring diagrams, operating procedures, and maintenance manuals, to support ongoing operations and knowledge transfer. Provide training and technical support to operators and maintenance personnel on PLC operation, troubleshooting, and best practices.
• Ensure PLC systems comply with relevant safety standards, regulations, and industry best practices. Implement safety features, such as emergency stop circuits, interlocks, and fail-safe programming, to protect personnel and equipment from hazards.

Location & Travel Expectations: The responsibilities of this role require attendance at in-person meetings and events regularly. This role will be based out of the Scout Motors location in Columbia, South Carolina. Applicants should expect that the role will require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time.

What you’ll bring 

We expect all Scout employees to have integrity, curiosity, resourcefulness, and strive to exhibit a positive attitude, as well as a growth mindset. You’ll be comfortable with change and flexible in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. You’ll take a collaborative approach to achieve ambitious goals. Here’s what else you’ll bring: 

• 5+ years hands on Controls Engineering experience in a high-volume automotive manufacturing environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in electrical, Robotics or Mechatronics Engineering or related field strongly preferred; equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of a bachelor’s degree.
• Detailed knowledge of robot and equipment safety standards such as ISO 10218 (ANSI/RIA R15.06) and ISO 13849 (ANSI B11.19), and familiarity with commonly used safety system components such as light curtains, area scanners, guard locking devices, etc.
• 3+ years experience, in programming/troubleshooting PLC application software for manufacturing processes (Siemens TIA Portal/S7 and automotive preferred).
• 3+ years knowledge with HMI software development (Siemens TIA Portal or WinCC preferred).
• 3+ years experience, ProfNet, safety PLCs, robotics, variable-frequency drives, motors, electrical schematics, and other control system components.
• Demonstrated excellence in programming Paint Robots and Conveyors. Development of new applications and structured standards that interact with PLC.
• Demonstrated excellence in programming PLCs. Must have a well-defined methodology for maintaining code structure and organization. Ability to program state machines for complex processes which involve multi-station parallel processing.
• Proficiency in creating detailed electrical and fluid schematics in CAD (E-Plan preferred).
• Experience with Vision systems.
• Experience creating technical specifications for automated manufacturing equipment is highly desired.
• Experience transitioning products and processes from prototype to production desired.
• Knowledge of production quality metrics is a plus. The ability to use 3D CAD packages such as with SolidWorks and CATIA is a plus.
• Strong time management and analysis skills.
• Advanced proficiency programming industrial equipment.

What you’ll gain

The benefits of joining Scout include the chance to build products and a company from the ground up.  This is a chance to create something new and lasting – with an iconic brand at its foundation.  In addition, Scout provides competitive compensation and benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. Program specifics are detailed in company policies and employee benefit guides, select highlights:

• Competitive insurance including:
  • Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans
• 401(k) program with:
  • An employer match and immediate vesting
• Generous Paid Time Off including:
  • 20 days planned PTO, as accrued
  • 40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually
  • Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders
  • Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave

Pay Transparency

This is a full-time, exempt position eligible to receive a base salary and to participate in an annual performance bonus program. Final salary offered will be determined based on factors including but not limited to the candidate’s skills and experience. The annual performance bonus program is preset and not candidate dependent.

Initial base salary range = $100,000-$130,000

Internal leveling code: IC9

Notice to applicants:

• Residing in San Francisco: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. 
• Residing in Los Angeles: Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. 
• Residing in New York City: This role is not eligible for remote work in New York City.