Okay, I've searched for Controls Engineer roles in Knoxville, TN, requiring a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, 5+ years of experience in factory automation, skills in Allen Bradley PLC systems, and full-time job mode. I have found several positions that match your criteria.

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The Controls Engineer role is fundamentally about designing, implementing, and maintaining advanced automation systems that enhance manufacturing efficiency and reliability. Candidates are expected to bridge mechanical and electrical disciplines by working with robots, PLC systems, control panels, and automation tools to directly impact plant productivity. The role demands a hands-on engineering mindset, combined with the ability to lead continuous improvement initiatives—meaning the engineer must not only troubleshoot existing systems but also innovate and justify new automation solutions financially and technically. Given the variety of systems (from Fanuc robots with Roboguide and iRVision to Allen Bradley PLCs), deep technical proficiency across multiple platforms is crucial. Success in this role means reliably supporting production with minimal downtime, mentoring plant personnel, and proactively advancing automation capability. The implicit challenges involve managing complex equipment integrations, responding to rapid troubleshooting needs to avoid production delays, and effectively communicating technical details in proposals and training—all requiring a balance of analytical rigor, practical skill, and interpersonal savvy. Autonomy is a key factor here, as the engineer will often make on-the-spot decisions affecting operational continuity, while also collaborating across functions to introduce improvements.

Company Analysis:

Jobot is a modern, innovation-driven company that forms its identity around kindness, respect, and results, with an employee ownership model fostering long-term commitment and alignment. Positioned as a disruptor in the recruiting and staffing space through the use of AI blended with human expertise, Jobot values a culture where collaboration, positivity, and career growth are central. For someone in the Controls Engineer role working at the manufacturing partner site in East Tennessee, this culture suggests a supportive environment focused on sustained impact and continuous learning. The company’s young age and recent employee ownership imply agility and a forward-thinking mindset—traits that likely translate into opportunities for the engineer to influence both technical solutions and broader operational strategies. This role aligns strategically with Jobot’s emphasis on innovation since automation improvements directly affect manufacturing excellence, which underpins their value proposition for clients. The engineer is expected to operate both independently and as a key cross-functional conduit among production teams and leadership, gaining considerable visibility. Thriving here requires blending technical mastery with proactive communication and a willingness to mentor others, all while embracing and contributing to a culture grounded in respect and career development.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

• Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex automation system under production time constraints. How did you approach it?
• Describe an experience where you led a continuous improvement project involving factory automation. What was your role and what impact did the project have?
• Can you share an example of how you mentored a junior technician or engineer in operating or maintaining control systems? What strategies did you use?
• How do you prioritize and manage multiple urgent equipment repair requests while maintaining overall plant performance?
• What is your experience with programming and troubleshooting Allen Bradley PLC systems? Can you walk me through a recent challenging issue you resolved?
• How would you design an automation solution that integrates Fanuc robots with existing plant equipment, considering both hardware and software aspects?
• Explain the steps you take to prepare proposals and cost-justifications for new automation equipment to gain managerial approval.
• Imagine the Fanuc robot cell suddenly stops working during a critical production run. What is your step-by-step approach to resolving the issue?
• If a team member disagrees with your recommended process improvement for automation equipment, how would you handle the conflict?
• Why are you interested in working as a Controls Engineer with Jobot's manufacturing partner in East Tennessee specifically?
• How do you see your approach to engineering and mentorship aligning with a company culture focused on kindness, respect, and results?
• What excites you about automation in manufacturing, and how do you stay current with relevant technologies and best practices?
• Can you describe how you would balance the need for rapid troubleshooting with maintaining strict safety standards in an industrial environment?
• What questions do you have about how this Controls Engineer role interacts with other teams across the manufacturing site or within Jobot?
• How does Jobot’s employee-owned culture influence the way you would approach your work and collaboration in this role?