Control System Application Engineer
CITI, Inc. is a leading systems integrator headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina with offices in Cary, NC and Columbia, SC. We provide automation, control, and network solutions for industrial operations, delivering customized systems that support reliability, efficiency, and innovation across water/wastewater, utilities, manufacturing, and security environments.
About the role
The Control System Application Engineer designs, develops, maintains, and implements programmable logic controller (PLC) and HMI systems for industrial automation and control applications. This role requires travel to project locations throughout the Carolinas to implement and support these systems. You will work on diverse projects across various industries, collaborating with teams to deliver efficient and reliable automation solutions.
Responsibilities
- Develop and write PLC programs to control industrial machinery and processes, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and client-specific requirements.
- Integrate PLC systems with other industrial automation components such as HMIs, SCADA systems, and field devices.
- Create organized and detailed technical documentation, including submittal paperwork and user guides for clients and team members.
- Assist with Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) to validate PLC programs and ensure they meet safety and quality standards.
- Design and perform simulations to verify the logic and functionality of control systems.
- Travel to client sites for on-site commissioning of PLC systems, overseeing installation, startup, software configuration, and system testing.
- Diagnose and resolve issues related to PLC systems during commissioning, operation, or maintenance, including troubleshooting electrical circuits, communication networks, and PLC hardware/software.
- Provide client support to solve control-system related issues, answer questions, and assist with system maintenance.
- Stay updated with the latest advancements in PLC technology, automation, and industrial control systems through continuous learning and company-provided training.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and/or computer engineering with 0-2 years of relevant experience OR 4+ years of relevant experience working in PLC-driven process controls.
- Proficiency in programming various PLC brands and platforms; familiarity with Allen-Bradley 5000, 500, and Schneider systems is a plus.
- Familiarity with industrial automation concepts, control systems, and instrumentation.
- Knowledge and experience with SCADA systems is highly valued but not required.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with clients and interdisciplinary team members.
- Ability to meet project deadlines and organize files and deliverables for team use.
- Occasional local travel to work on-site during installation or emergencies.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Moderate physical work requiring the ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Exerting up to 20 pounds of force frequently and up to 10 pounds constantly to move objects.
- Regular walking and standing for inspection and testing.
- Frequent pushing, pulling, bending, crouching/stooping, and climbing to test and inspect control systems.
- Hand/eye coordination to operate computers and peripherals.
- Hand/foot coordination for vehicle operation to travel to remote sites.
- Vision to read manuals, test documents, and other written materials.
- Speech communication to provide technical information and instructions.
- Hearing and listening to troubleshoot equipment and communicate via telephone and radio.
Benefits
- Health insurance
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance