Sr. Automation Controls Engineer, Wheel & Tire

Lucid Motors is looking for a Senior Automation Controls Engineer to join our Wheel & Tire operations in Tempe, AZ. This role is essential to keeping one of our most critical production processes running — without wheels and tires, the line doesn’t move. You’ll be the go-to expert for troubleshooting and maintaining automation systems, ensuring uptime and efficiency in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

You will partner with cross-functional teams, vendors, and maintenance staff to drive reliability, implement improvements, and standardize processes across equipment. The ideal candidate thrives in hands-on problem solving, takes ownership, and brings strong technical expertise in PLCs and electromechanical systems.

You will:

• Act as the controls and automation expert for Wheel & Tire operations.


• Troubleshoot PLC logic (Allen Bradley Studio 5000), hardware, and safety systems to resolve issues quickly and minimize downtime.


• Provide daily production support, including occasional off-shift or Saturday coverage.


• Review and approve vendor automation and control designs, ensuring compliance with Lucid and industry safety standards.


• Draft and support design specifications for RFQs and supplier performance management.


• Mentor and train maintenance associates on troubleshooting techniques and preventive practices.


• Support line integration into MES systems (e.g., DOT number logging, vision system data).


• Assist with spare parts inventory control, including setup, tracking, and availability to minimize downtime risks.

You bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Engineering, or related field (or 5+ years equivalent experience).


• 5+ years of hands-on controls experience (Allen Bradley / Studio 5000) in high-volume manufacturing.


• Strong electromechanical troubleshooting ability, with experience diagnosing root causes across logic, hardware, and equipment.


• Familiarity with safety standards (ANSI/RIA 15.06, OSHA) and their application in manufacturing environments.


• Experience with vision systems (Cognex, Keyence) and HMIs (FactoryTalk, PanelView, Ignition).


• Automotive or remanufacturing experience a plus, but not required.