Controls Engineer II

SP Industries, Inc., an ATS company, is seeking a Controls Engineer II to design, develop, and implement automation technologies for lyophilization systems used in pharmaceutical, medical, research, and industrial applications. This role focuses on PLC, HMI, and SCADA-based control systems to ensure reliable equipment performance and regulatory compliance.

About the role

Join a team developing industry-leading lyophilization and process automation solutions for global pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and research organizations. You'll work on challenging automation projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and contribute to innovative technologies supporting critical healthcare and scientific advancements.

Responsibilities

• Develop, test, troubleshoot, modify, and commission Allen-Bradley PLC applications using Studio 5000 and CompactLogix platforms.
• Develop, test, troubleshoot, modify, and commission SCADA and HMI applications using GE Proficy iFIX and related software platforms.
• Specify, procure, and support control system hardware, instrumentation, and related components.
• Interpret, develop, and modify engineering documentation, including:
  • P&IDs
  • Electrical and control schematics
  • Wiring diagrams
  • I/O lists
  • Pneumatic and hydraulic drawings
  • Functional specifications
  • User manuals
  • Sequence of operations documentation
• Create and maintain GAMP-compliant documentation, including Functional Specifications (FS), Hardware Design Specifications (HDS), and Software Design Specifications (SDS).
• Develop, configure, and maintain PC-based relational databases.
• Design and implement control systems that meet project schedules, budgets, customer requirements, and equipment specifications.
• Support value engineering initiatives, product improvements, and sustaining engineering projects focused on enhancing reliability, safety, quality, manufacturability, and cost effectiveness.
• Assist Technical Support and Field Service teams with troubleshooting and customer support activities.
• Travel as required to company facilities, vendor locations, and customer sites, including occasional international travel.

Requirements

• Minimum of 1-5 years of engineering experience in industrial controls, automation, or a related field.
• Experience developing and supporting SCADA systems; GE Proficy iFIX experience preferred. Experience with Zenon is a plus.
• Experience developing and supporting HMI applications; Allen-Bradley and Siemens platforms preferred.
• Understanding of ANSI/ISA-5.1 standards and industrial instrumentation practices.
• Experience using CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks.
• Strong knowledge of industrial networking and IP-based communications.
• Experience configuring and supporting PCs, servers, and thin clients in Microsoft Windows environments.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Validation and change-control procedures for control systems.
• FDA-regulated manufacturing environments.
• Controls validation and commissioning activities.
• Manufacturing resource planning (MRP), inventory control, and bill-of-material management systems.
• ISO 9001 quality management systems.
• Multi-vendor systems integration projects.
• Refrigeration system controls.
• Pharmaceutical or biotechnology equipment automation.
• Knowledge of GAMP 5 software development and documentation practices.
• Familiarity with 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records and electronic signatures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline preferred.
• Candidates with an Associate's degree and 5+ years of relevant experience will be considered.
• Candidates without a degree who possess 10+ years of directly related controls engineering experience may also be considered.

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to communicate verbally and work collaboratively with others.
• Regularly required to work with computerized systems and utilize color vision when troubleshooting or reviewing technical information.
• Regularly required to sit, stand, and walk throughout the workday.
• Occasionally required to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Regular use of standard office equipment, computers, and engineering tools.

Work Environment

The work environment includes both office and shop settings. The office is air-conditioned, while the shop contains mobile equipment, machinery, and high voltages. Shop noise levels vary and may require hearing protection in some areas. The shop is heated but not air-conditioned in many areas, and may involve high voltage arcs, concentrated magnetic fields, open flames, caustic chemicals, and designated hard hat zones.

Benefits

• Robust health and welfare benefits package including Life, Health, Dental, and Vision insurance.
• 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Time Off annually plus Paid Holidays.
• Career Advancement Opportunities.
• Tuition Assistance.