PLC Automation Engineer (Programmable Logic Controller)

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PLC Automation Engineer (Programmable Logic Controller)

Shanghai, Shanghai, ChinaHardware

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The people here at Apple don’t just create products — they create the kind of wonder that’s revolutionized entire industries. Apple's Hardware Test Engineering (HWTE) group is looking for a passionate, highly collaborative PLC Automation Engineer. In this role, you will be at the heart of our automated test and calibration systems, architecting the control logic that ensures the flawless mass production of Apple's most innovative products. You will not only design complex machine logic but also own core automation frameworks, establish safety standards, and drive the integration of our equipment into Apple’s next-generation smart factory ecosystems.

As a PLC Automation Engineer in HWTE, you will own the software architecture, control logic, and integration of complex automated test fixtures. You will not be working in a silo: this role operates in a highly dynamic, cross-functional (XF) environment where you will partner daily with mechanical engineers, software engineers (macOS/iOS), test instrumentation specialists, and operations teams. We need a technical leader who bridges the gap between traditional automation and modern software engineering.You will translate complex test requirements into robust, modular PLC code using Object- Oriented Programming (OOP) principles, while governing the automation standards used by our global vendors. If you have a deep passion for machine state modeling, excel at diagnosing electromechanical systems in the field, and want to lead the charge on "Future Factory" initiatives, we want to hear from you.

• Core Architecture & Governance: Own the HWTE PLC control framework. Manage code releases using version control (Git), create and maintain reusable code libraries, and drive continuous improvement across all automation platforms.

• Station’s PLC DRI: Serve as the PLC Direct Responsible Individual (DRI) for our most critical and complex test stations. You will take ownership of the system integration, orchestrating robots, vision systems, precision sensors, and actuators.

• SIs Enablement & Bring-up: Act as the technical cornerstone for external System Integrators (SIs). You will onboard new SIs to Apple's frameworks, interpret technical specifications, provide training, and drive the successful commissioning, testing, and validation of new machines at manufacturing sites.

• New System Initiatives: Lead the control-level integration for Apple's "Future Factory" initiatives. Partner with IT and Ops to connect machine PLCs to upper-level shop-floor systems, utilizing databases for data logging and exploring IIoT/AI technologies.

• BS or MS in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Science, Automation, or a related field.

• Minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in PLC programming and industrial automation.

• Core PLC & Architecture: Proficient in IEC 61131-3 languages with a strong emphasis on Structured Text (ST).

• Proven, hands-on experience applying Object-Oriented.

• Programming (OOP) principles within a PLC environment.

• Platform Experience: Strong experience programming sophisticated automation systems. Note: Experience with Beckhoff TwinCAT 3 or CODESYS is highly preferred, but strong candidates with other platforms who are eager to transition to PC-based controls will be actively considered.

• Motion & Integration: Deep experience with motion control (servo systems, stepper motors, motion controllers), including tuning and commissioning drives.

• Electrical & Safety: Solid understanding of electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel design. Knowledge of machine functional safety standards (e.g., ISO 13849, IEC 62061).

• Industrial Networking: Proficiency in configuring and troubleshooting industrial protocols (EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus, etc.).

• Communication & Soft Skills: Exceptional analytical problem-solving skills. Outstanding XF communication skills to collaborate effectively with mechanical, electrical, and software teams.

• Flexibility: Adaptable and willing to travel for field work, commissioning, and troubleshooting during critical project build phases.

• Advanced Frameworks: Practical experience implementing ISA-88 batch control standards and PackML machine state models.

• Safety Integration: Experience designing, implementing, and validating functional safety systems, particularly configuring safe I/O and programming safe logic within the TwinCAT Safety environment.

• Software Engineering Tools: Proficiency with version control systems (e.g., Git) for PLC code management.

• HMI/SCADA: Experience designing and programming Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI) and SCADA systems.

• High-Level Languages: Experience with high-level languages in an industrial context (e.g., Python, C#) and basic knowledge of databases.

• Continuous Learning: A demonstrated willingness to learn new programming environments and keep pace with emerging automation technologies (Industry 4.0, IIoT).

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity, and thus we treat all applicants fairly and equally. Apple is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical and mental disabilities.

At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.

Learn about accessibility in Apple’s workplace

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