Controls Specialist - Data Center

Controls Specialist – Data Center (PLC Systems Support)

Position Summary

The Controls Specialist is responsible for troubleshooting, diagnosing, and supporting PLC-based control systems within a mission-critical data center environment. This role requires strong working knowledge of Rockwell Automation platforms, particularly Studio 5000, with the ability to navigate existing control programs, isolate faults, and resolve system issues impacting power and cooling infrastructure.

This is not a greenfield programming role. The ideal candidate understands how to move through ladder logic, identify interlocks, trace I/O, and support live operational systems in a high-availability environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Utilize Studio 5000 (Logix Designer) to navigate existing PLC programs and troubleshoot operational issues

• Trace I/O points to identify sensor, device, or logic-related failures

• Diagnose faults impacting critical infrastructure including:

  • Chillers and cooling systems

  • Switchgear and power distribution

  • Backup generators

  • Pumps and HVAC equipment

• Review ladder logic, function blocks, and interlocks to isolate root cause

• Coordinate with operations and maintenance teams to implement corrective actions

• Support system modifications and minor logic adjustments when required

• Verify communications between PLCs, HMIs, BMS, and EPMS systems

• Maintain system documentation and ensure changes follow MOC (Management of Change) procedures

• Participate in incident response for uptime-critical systems

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related engineering discipline

• 3+ years of experience working with Allen-Bradley PLC systems

• Hands-on experience navigating and troubleshooting in Studio 5000

• Strong understanding of ladder logic and industrial control architecture

• Experience with EtherNet/IP and industrial communication protocols

• Ability to analyze electrical schematics and P&IDs

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in data center, power generation, manufacturing, or other mission-critical facilities

• Familiarity with EPMS and BMS system integration

• Understanding of HVAC and power distribution systems

• Experience supporting live systems in high-availability environments

Key Competencies

• Strong root cause analysis skills

• Comfortable working in live, uptime-sensitive environments

• Detail-oriented with strong system-level thinking

• Clear communicator across engineering and operations teams