Controls Engineer

Position Summary

OptiCool designs and manufactures high-performance, energy-efficient cooling systems for modern data centers. We specialize in two-phase rear-door cooling solutions that enable higher rack densities, lower energy consumption, and scalable deployments.

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to join our collaborative engineering team. In this role, you will play a key part in the design and development of control systems for innovative cooling solutions. From concept through post-sale support, you will contribute to design, programming, documentation, and continuous product improvement. You will also provide cross-functional support and contribute to OptiCool's quality-first approach.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Design and develop new products and electrical components in a hands-on, collaborative environment, ensuring alignment with project goals and technical requirements.
• Create and maintain accurate, detailed electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Develop and implement control software for both R&D and commercialized products, ensuring functionality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with project managers, mechanical engineers, and software engineers to define project requirements and specifications.
• Develop advanced control systems, including PID, fault-tolerant, redundant, and self-learning systems.
• Develop detailed control narratives, process shutdown sequences, process flow charts, and interface control documentation to provide a comprehensive understanding of system functionality and interactions.
• Conduct thorough testing and validation of PLC systems to ensure reliability and performance.
• Maintain controls hardware and software libraries to support all phases of the product lifecycle, from R&D through obsolescence.
• Enhance existing product designs to improve performance, reliability, serviceability, and manufacturability.
• Provide technical assistance and troubleshooting support to Service, Installation, and Applications teams.
• Travel occasionally to supplier and customer sites to support development, testing, and deployment activities.

Required Qualifications (Education, Experience, Knowledge, and Skills)

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of industry experience in system design and PLC programming development.
• Proficiency in developing control system design packages using CAD software (SolidWorks Electrical preferred).
• Experience programming control systems; Allen-Bradley and Carel platforms are highly desired.
• Proficiency in PLC programming languages, such as ladder logic and structured text.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols, including Modbus, BACnet, and SNMP.
• Strong focus on designing for manufacturability and serviceability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with experience in technical documentation and data analysis.
• Knowledge of refrigerants, refrigeration components, or equipment-based cooling systems is a strong plus.