Controls Engineer (39599)

The Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, development, installation, and support of electrical control systems, machinery, and automation equipment. This role provides technical expertise for PLC and HMI hardware and software, including programming, troubleshooting, commissioning, and customer training. The Controls Engineer will work closely with internal teams and customers to deliver reliable automation solutions that meet operational and performance requirements.

Specific Responsibilities And Essential Functions

• Design and develop electrical control systems for automated equipment and machinery.
• Create and maintain electrical schematics, control panel drawings, and technical documentation.
• Program, test, and troubleshoot PLCs according to customer functional specifications.
• Develop and support HMI applications based on customer and project requirements.
• Investigate, diagnose, and resolve equipment, system, and product performance issues.
• Support equipment installation, startup, commissioning, and validation activities.
• Coordinate and oversee equipment maintenance and repair activities as needed.
• Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and technical teams to develop system designs and operational plans.
• Participate in customer meetings to review project requirements, designs, and implementation plans.
• Estimate technical requirements, project resources, and timelines for development and production projects.
• Operate and utilize computer-based engineering and automation systems.
• Prepare project documentation, operational reports, and development updates.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Competencies And Qualifications

• Strong electrical and mechanical aptitude, including the ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, and technical documentation.
• Proven experience programming, troubleshooting, and supporting PLC and HMI systems.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a strong troubleshooting mindset.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams and customers.
• Self-motivated with the ability to manage projects and tasks with minimal supervision.
• Willingness and ability to travel 80-100%, including weekday and weekend travel as required.
• Ability to complete 3-6 months of on-site training before traveling independently.

Qualifications Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with packaging equipment and automated manufacturing systems.
• 5-7 years of experience programming and troubleshooting Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLCs.
• Experience with HMI system development and integration.
• Strong knowledge of industrial networking, control systems, and electrical troubleshooting.
• Experience commissioning new equipment and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

Education And Experience

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related engineering field.
• 5-7 years of Controls Engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience designing, programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting PLC, HMI, and automation systems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, control panel drawings, and machine documentation.

Physical Demands

• Walking and standing are required
• Light physical work may require exerting up to 20 pounds of force
• Worker is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as viewing computer, extensive reading, and visual inspection of small parts
• Generally, the worker is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions
• Occasionally climbing, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds may be required
• Occasionally stooping, kneeling, and crouching may be required
• Occasionally the worker is subject to noise, physical hazards, and working in close quarters

Travel Required

• Travel 90% to visit customer sites

Other Duties Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of the activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.