Lead Controls Electrician

Position Summary

The Controls Electrician / Controls Installation Lead supports the installation, commissioning, and startup of industrial automation systems across customer facilities throughout North America. This role combines hands-on electrical installation work with field leadership responsibilities, ensuring projects are executed safely, efficiently, and according to engineering standards.

Primary Duties And Responsibilities

• Install, terminate, and troubleshoot low-voltage control wiring including PLC I/O, sensors, safety devices, HMIs, and industrial networking equipment.
• Install and troubleshoot motor controls, VFDs, MCC equipment, and associated power distribution systems.
• Review electrical drawings, schematics, and installation packages to ensure accurate field execution.
• Coverage and oversee electrical subcontractors and installation crews during project execution.
• Perform field device checkout, I/O verification, and commissioning activities.
• Support controls engineers during system startup, troubleshooting, and customer acceptance testing.
• Verify installations meet project specifications, applicable electrical codes, and safety requirements.
• Create redline markups and provide field feedback to engineering teams.
• Assist with FAT, SAT, and customer startup activities.
• Maintain a safe work environment and ensure compliance with lockout/tagout and site safety procedures.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Tech degree, trade school certification, or apprenticeship training in electrical systems preferred.
• 5+ years of industrial electrical experience.
• Experience leading electricians, subcontractors, or installation crews preferred.
• Ability to travel up to 50% as required.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel throughout the United States.

Essential Skills Required

• Proficiency in reading electrical schematics, panel drawings, and wiring diagrams.
• Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems and 24VDC control circuits.
• Experience installing and troubleshooting motors, motor starters, and VFDs.
• Experience troubleshooting industrial automation equipment using electrical drawings and test equipment.
• Ability to identify and resolve electrical, controls, and installation issues in the field.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to coordinate activities between customers, contractors, and engineering teams.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining project schedules and quality standards.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Familiarity with industrial safety practices including lockout/tagout procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Journeyman Electrician license.
• Schematic design experience using AutoCAD and/or AutoCAD Electrical.
• Experience with conveyor systems, warehouse automation, or material handling equipment.
• Experience with Allen-Bradley PLC platforms and industrial control systems.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
• NFPA 70E training.
• Experience commissioning automated equipment.
• Familiarity with Ethernet/IP and industrial networking.
• Experience supporting customer startup and commissioning activities.