PLC Programmer

Company: Cougar USA

About Us: Cougar USA provides innovative water control solutions for commercial buildings, specializing in pressure control, water quality, and water monitoring systems. With a focus on reliability and efficiency, we help engineers, contractors, and building owners optimize water system performance. Our expertise in smart water management ensures safe, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions tailored to the unique needs of each facility.

Visit our website: https://cougarusa.com/

Job Summary: Cougar USA is a leading supplier of water control systems for commercial building applications, specializing in Pre-Engineered and Custom-Designed solutions for water pressure, level, temperature, flow, and quality. We are seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled PLC Programmer to join our Systems Production team. This role is responsible for programming and configuring PLC and HMI systems used in Cougar USA's water control solutions.

The PLC Programmer will also assist with system design, testing, quality assurance, and technical documentation. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, self-motivated, and passionate about delivering reliable, efficient, and high-quality automated systems.

Job Responsibilities:

PLC/HMI Programming & System Integration: Design, develop, and implement PLC and HMI programs for Cougar control systems. Program and configure PLCs (e.g., Automation Direct, Mitsubishi) and HMIs (e.g., Automation Direct, Mitsubishi) to meet system requirements. Ensure compatibility and functionality with communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, BACnet).

Testing & Quality Control: Conduct bench testing and system validation of PLC/HMI programs to ensure proper operation. Collaborate with the QA team to identify and correct programming or integration issues. Participate in post-production reviews and implement feedback for continual improvement.

Documentation & Technical Support: Create and update system documentation, including IOMs, system overlays, and program backups. Provide technical support to internal teams and field technicians for programming-related troubleshooting. Maintain accurate records of program changes and support logs.

Process & Program Improvement: Maintain and enhance programming templates and code libraries for efficiency and consistency. Analyze trends in system performance and support requests to identify improvement opportunities.

Metrics / KPIs:

On-Time Programming Completion: Deliver completed programs in accordance with project timelines.

Program Reliability: Minimize rework and post-installation service calls related to PLC/HMI issues.

Documentation Accuracy: Maintain complete and clear documentation to support internal and external stakeholders.

Support Responsiveness: Resolve support requests in a timely and professional manner.

Required Qualifications:

Education: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or a related field (preferred); or equivalent work experience.

Experience: 3–5 years of experience in PLC and HMI programming, preferably in industrial or water control systems.

Technical Skills: Proficiency in PLC and HMI programming software, specifically Automation Direct and Mitsubishi platforms (or similar) Strong understanding of control panel wiring diagrams, I/O lists, and system logic. Knowledge of industrial communication protocols and UL 508A panel standards.

Soft Skills: Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment. Team-oriented with a proactive, customer-first mindset.