Controls Engineer

Job Title: Controls Engineer – Switchgear Design

Location: Hackettstown, NJ

Department: Engineering

Reports To: Engineering Manager

Overview:

A growing power systems engineering firm is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join their team in Hackettstown, NJ. This role plays a critical part in designing and implementing control systems for low and medium voltage switchgear and power distribution applications. The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of control system design, PLC programming, and protective relaying, with a strong focus on quality, reliability, and safety.

This position involves close collaboration with internal engineering teams, field technicians, and external clients to deliver comprehensive, code-compliant solutions on time and within scope.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design control systems for low and medium voltage switchgear (480V to 38kV).
• Review technical specifications and develop project take-offs.
• Create electrical drawings, submittals, and sequences of operation.
• Program and configure PLCs (Siemens & Fanuc) for automation systems.
• Develop SCADA and HMI interfaces using Siemens WinCC and Wonderware InTouch.
• Configure, test, and troubleshoot protection relays, power meters, and circuit breakers.
• Conduct diagnostics and maintenance on PLCs, HMIs, multifunction relays, and other control components.
• Develop and maintain project schedules.
• Provide training on control system operation for internal staff and clients.
• Support multiple office locations and assist in daily operations.
• Ensure adherence to OSHA and NFPA 70E safety standards.
• Follow customer site-specific safety protocols and procedures.
• Maintain a professional and collaborative attitude with coworkers and clients.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent technical background.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in power distribution, control system engineering, and switchgear design.
• Proven experience with PLC programming, relay protection, and SCADA/HMI systems.
• Familiarity with construction site safety practices and procedures.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong background in designing and integrating switchgear control systems.
• Proficiency with Siemens and Fanuc PLCs.
• Experience developing SCADA/HMI systems (Siemens WinCC, Wonderware InTouch).
• Solid understanding of electrical schematics, industrial networking, and communication protocols.
• Skilled in working independently while managing multiple projects.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Leadership qualities with a proactive approach to project execution.
• Familiarity with NetSuite ERP system is a plus.
• Ability to pass background checks and comply with a drug-free workplace policy.

Travel Requirements:

• Approximately 10% travel to customer sites and manufacturer facilities.
• Occasional weekend and after-hours work as needed.
• On-call availability required at times.
• Extended travel arrangements provided when necessary.
• Travel and meal expenses covered.