Controls Engineer

Job Title: Controls Engineer

Department: Engineering

Reports To: Engineering Team Leader

Exemption Classification: Salary, Exempt

Position Summary

The Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, programming, integration, and support of machine control systems for custom industrial equipment. This role works across engineering, manufacturing, and customer teams to deliver reliable, functional, and supportable automation systems from project kickoff through startup and customer acceptance.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys problem-solving, machine integration, and seeing projects come to life in the real world.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop PLC and HMI programs using platforms such as Allen-Bradley and Siemens
• Support electrical controls design including schematics, panel layouts, and controls documentation
• Debug, test, and support machines during build, runoff, and startup
• Collaborate with Project Managers, Engineers, Manufacturing, Electricians, and Customers throughout project execution
• Support controls-related troubleshooting in manufacturing and the field
• Generate controls-related BOMs and support component selection
• Research and apply new controls technologies and improvements

What Makes Someone Successful in This Role

Successful Controls Engineers are strong problem-solvers who combine technical capability with ownership and teamwork. Individuals who excel in this role typically demonstrate:

• Systems Thinking - Understands how controls, electrical, mechanical, and machine operation work together
• Troubleshooting Ability - Approaches problems logically and remains effective during debug and startup activities
• Ownership & Accountability - Takes responsibility for machine functionality from design through customer acceptance
• Communication & Collaboration - Works effectively with engineering, manufacturing, project management, and customers
• Adaptability & Prioritization - Manages multiple projects and changing priorities while maintaining quality and schedule commitments

Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related technical field - or equivalent experience
• Experience with PLC/HMI programming and industrial controls systems
• Familiarity with AutoCAD Electrical or similar electrical CAD software
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Preferred:

• Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens experience
• Capital equipment or custom machinery experience
• Startup, commissioning, or field service experience

Certificates/Licenses/Registrations

• Maintain local, regional and/or national membership in appropriate professional organizations/associations as necessary.

Physical Demands

• Sit at a workstation for extended periods. Adjust visual focus as needed. Occasionally reach, stoop, and/or bend, and climb stairs. Enter the shop environment as needed.

Work Environment

• Traditional office atmosphere. Temperature standard. Quiet noise level. Will need to go into shop environment on an as needed basis.

Travel

• Must be able to periodically travel to customer's jobsite for startups, machine commissioning, and warranty work as dictated by project. All projects do not require travel, but when warranted, most stays are from 1 to 2 days, some could be more.

Why Join Us

• Work on custom industrial automation and engineered systems
• Be involved from concept through startup and customer acceptance
• Collaborative environment with hands-on engineering involvement
• Opportunity to grow technically and professionally within a highly specialized industry