Electrical Engineer - Control Systems

About the role

Astec is seeking an Electrical Engineer - Control Systems to join our dynamic team of engineers. This position involves designing and developing control/automation systems for heavy construction equipment, including road pavers, road mills, woodchippers, wood grinders, and more. The ideal candidate will work closely with mechanical engineers, software engineers, and cross-functional teams to ensure the successful development and launch of new equipment.

Responsibilities

• Works with the cross-functional Product Management Team to produce a complete and well-defined Product Functional Specification before product design is started.
• Follow Structured System Design techniques to decompose the product function requirements into an effective control strategy for heavy construction equipment.
• Uses knowledge of sensor technologies, control device technologies, and process automation techniques to advance the simplicity of operation and troubleshooting of equipment to maximize productivity by enhancing operator functionality and minimizing equipment downtime.
• Applies Design for Reliability processes and principles to realize desired equipment reliability and Total Cost of Ownership requirements.
• Develops and executes bench tests with the Controls Software Engineer on design modules and code units to ensure proper functionality before integration into the complete equipment design to ensure project success.
• Develops detailed drawings for new designs and modifications to existing designs.
• Leads cross-functional electrical design reviews, including Design for Manufacturability and Design for Reliability.
• Contributes to the development of product documentation, including production work instructions, training manuals, troubleshooting guides, and product test plans.
• Identifies improvement opportunities and enhancements for product enhancements and/or cost reductions.
• Contributes to project teams by championing the successful completion of project objectives, including schedule, budget, and feature set.
• Contributes to the development of new processes and procedures to enhance the software and hardware design capabilities and work products of the engineering team.
• Develops the electrical and software test plans for new designs and changes to existing designs and coordinates the testing and validation using these plans.
• Participates in cross-functional software and HMI design reviews.
• Participates in software design reviews for developed control software.
• Assists customers, via telephone or on-site, to resolve function and/or application issues.
• Works with the Manufacturing department to resolve production issues.
• Works with the Service Department to resolve field and warranty issues.
• Works with the Purchasing Department and suppliers on new or existing component issues.
• Works with the Technical Publications Department to develop and update operation/parts/service manuals.
• Adheres to all Astec design and coding standards.
• Performs engineering calculations as required during design cycle.
• Follows proper safety procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science (4-year) degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in the design and development of industrial or mobile equipment controls.

Skills and Abilities

• Knowledgeable of structured system design techniques.
• Knowledge of Design for Reliability is highly desired.
• Knowledge of design for safety standards such as CE, AS3000, SIL, HRN, etc.
• Proficient with computer-aided design software.
• Knowledge of network protocols such as CAN, Ethernet, Wireless 802.11, etc.
• Proficient in the development, reading, and interpretation of electrical engineering drawings.
• Proficient in electrical engineering systems design and troubleshooting, D/C controls design required, A/C design highly desired.
• Ability to think creatively and propose innovative solutions to engineering challenges.
• Ability to show competence in assessing, managing, and mitigating risks within a project and design.
• Ability to work satisfactorily as a team member.
• Good communication skills (both verbal and written).
• Good organization and time-management skills.
• Willingness to accept responsibility and take on new challenges.
• Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment on a customary and regular basis.
• Proficiency with personal computer and Microsoft Office Suite software applications.
• Proficiency with Electrical CAD software, specifically EPLAN, is highly desirable.
• Adept at problem solving and root-cause analysis.
• Leadership Skills:
• Ability to mentor and lead junior level engineers in the design and execution of systems controls.
• Ability to represent the electrical and software design team in cross-functional meetings by being the voice of good engineering practice.
• Ability to step into a leadership void and lead a team to proper completion of tasks, projects, and investigations while encouraging others and moving toward a best solution for all involved.

Preferences

• Proficiency with Solidworks, EPLAN.
• Experience with CodeSys, C++, Telematics, hydraulic circuits, 12V/24V DC electric circuits and/or control systems for off-road construction equipment or heavy industrial equipment.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes.
• Experience in the design and manufacture of off-road construction equipment.
• Experience with Design for Reliability.

Other Requirements

• Pre-employment drug screen, physical, and background check.
• Flexibility to work additional hours as required.
• Occasional travel (including international).
• Valid driver's license and ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

Safety

• Proficient in promoting safe and healthy work environment.
• Notify area supervisor of product discrepancies or equipment malfunctions.
• Adhere to established company policies and procedures paying special attention to safety regulations.
• Report defective materials, equipment, or questionable conditions to the area supervisor/manager to identify and correct the root cause.
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) in accordance with training guidelines.