Controls Engineer
Apex Systems · North Reading, MA · 4 days ago
Engineering$70–$120/hrContract
Role Overview
We are seeking a Controls Engineer with a strong focus on machine behavior, system-level control, and integration. This role functions more like a software or embedded developer than a traditional PLC-only programmer. The position supports the design, implementation, and commissioning of automated equipment, with a heavy emphasis on debugging across software, firmware, and hardware. The ideal candidate thinks like a robotics or embedded systems engineer, focusing on system brains rather than just plant-floor automation.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, program, and maintain embedded or PLC-based control systems for industrial machinery.
- Develop C++ or Structured Text control software following software engineering best practices.
- Participate in machine and robot bring-up, working with distributed control architectures.
- Perform real-time motion and sensor integration.
- Integrate sensors, actuators, VFDs, servos, and safety devices.
- Support machine commissioning and troubleshoot systems onsite.
- Diagnose I/O, communication, and motion control issues.
- Interface with HMIs, SCADA systems, and industrial networks like EtherNet/IP and PROFINET.
Required Qualifications
- Experience programming embedded systems or PLCs (such as Rockwell, Siemens, or Beckhoff) is required.
- Experience with commissioning automated machinery is required.
- Strong understanding of industrial automation principles.
- Familiarity with industrial networking (EtherNet/IP, PROFINET).
Preferred Qualifications
- Ability to interpret electrical schematics and system documentation.
- Motion control experience.
- Experience with safety PLCs or functional safety (SIL/PL-rated systems).
- Exposure to robotics integration.
Pay
The pay rate for this position is between $70.00 and $120.00 per hour.