Controls Engineer - III

Reports to: Engineering Manager • Full Time • Exempt

About the role

The Controls Engineer III is responsible for leading all phases of a controls project — from concept and research, estimating support, component selection, network design, panel design, layout, device troubleshooting, PLC and HMI programming, through on-site installation and debug, to after-sales support — while working independently. This role requires expert-level knowledge of the full scope of controls engineering practices, theories, and PLC programming to implement controls for a project from concept to completion. The Controls Engineer III serves as a subject matter expert and resource for the team, providing coaching and guidance on job sites or during in-office collaboration. To stay current, the engineer attends training in the latest controls technology and shares that knowledge with less experienced engineers, while also working collaboratively with the Engineering Manager to provide insight on advancements in the field and implement new standards for the company.

Work environment: Office setting and field locations with a collaborative, engaging, success-driven culture. Travel up to 50% or more.

Responsibilities

• Expert understanding of AC/DC control systems
• Use of computer software for design engineering and PLC programming
• Troubleshoot systems and communicate status verbally and in writing
• Assist and support the process for designing and delivering successful controls
• Design and develop layouts for electrical circuits or systems for power and control distribution
• Develop/create electrical diagrams with expert-level efficiency
• Locate and correct mistakes in electrical diagrams developed by others; use findings as training opportunities to foster continuous improvement (transfer of knowledge)
• Serve as controls lead and manage other engineers on project teams
• Create functional system test plans for field commissioning and provide written descriptions of system operations for technical documents
• Communicate effectively with team members; keep Administrative Coordinator advised of schedule; check and use voicemail and email diligently; maintain team relationships
• Other responsibilities as needed

Requirements

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Advanced proficiency in several programming languages and control device networks for PLCs, with good aptitude for learning programming for new/additional systems
• Ability to read and understand written specifications and contract drawings, and develop a complete design meeting requirements within electrical design standards and project quotation
• Knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures in controls, material handling, and manufacturing
• Ability to check diagrams for errors and use that information as a training opportunity/transfer of knowledge to foster continuous improvement and develop less experienced controls engineers
• Effective organizational skills and multi-tasking abilities; acute attention to detail
• Ability to receive direction; high-energy team player who can work independently and in a group environment
• Critical thinker and problem-solver with self-starting instincts and strong analytical skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Willingness to travel to customer facilities as needed and work non-business hours based on project and customer needs

Education, Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering — preferably EE, EET, or CECS — or equivalent work experience
• 6+ years in the field or related area
• Experience required: PLC programming, debugging, and commissioning; plan/hardware design; AutoCAD (AutoCAD Electrical desired); Microsoft Office Suite; basic knowledge of electrical equipment and local building codes such as UL508A, NEC, and NFPA
• Experience preferred: Hands-on mechanical and electrical capabilities; troubleshooting; Material Handling specifically in Parcel and Warehouse & Distribution industry; understanding of VFDs, Servos, sensors, and Vision Systems
• Legally authorized to work in the United States
• Ability to obtain facility security clearance as needed

Schedule

General office hours are Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. or 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. when working in the office. Working hours vary when at a job site to meet project requirements as needed.

Physical Demands

• Sitting for prolonged periods when in office
• Standing and walking for prolonged periods when at a job site
• Climbing may be required when working at a job site
• Repetitive typing/data entry
• Lifting up to 50 pounds