Controls Engineer III

Position: Controls Engineer III

Department: Engineering

Reports To: Manager, Controls Engineering

Job Summary

A well-established automation company is seeking a Senior-Level Controls Engineer to support its continued growth. Specializing in the design and construction of custom automation equipment-particularly within the medical and life science industries-this role offers an opportunity to develop electrical system designs and optimize programs for various aspects of custom automation machinery. This position is ideal for highly motivated individuals looking to contribute in a fast-paced automation environment.

The ideal candidate thrives in managing multiple projects in different stages, demonstrating a hands-on, detail-oriented, and self-motivated approach. Responsibilities include leading all aspects of controls engineering tasks necessary for developing custom solutions that ensure project success and compliance with requirements. The company fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation and seeks individuals driven by excellence, precision, and continuous improvement.

This role may offer a hybrid work arrangement, requiring at least two days per week on-site, with up to three days remote during specific project phases such as electrical design and programming. However, during program integration and debugging, a minimum of four days per week on-site is required to ensure safe and efficient machine power-up and testing. Given the custom nature of the automation systems, remote work flexibility may vary based on project needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical systems for automation solutions, ensuring efficiency and reliability.
• Translate customer requirements into design specifications, evaluating feasibility and providing technical expertise.
• Program and configure PLCs, HMIs, robotics, safety systems, vision systems, and other control devices.
• Conduct testing and validation of control systems to ensure compliance with specifications and industry standards.
• Provide technical support during installation, commissioning, and maintenance of automation projects.
• Source and integrate components such as motors, drives, actuators, robots, sensors, and servo controls.
• Develop complete electrical designs, schematics, and panel layouts.
• Perform design reviews with internal and external stakeholders.
• Create and review detailed bills of materials for accuracy and alert purchasing about long-lead items.
• Maintain project schedules and update drawings as required.
• Identify high-risk areas during the quoting process and contribute to cost-effective design strategies.
• Support build, test, and evaluation phases of automation projects.
• Stay current with industry technologies and assist with sales efforts when needed.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the organization.

Required Experience & Key Skills

• 5 years of hands-on experience in designing, programming, and implementing control systems for custom automation projects.
• Strong understanding of automation requirements and ability to tailor solutions to client needs.
• Proficiency in programming PLCs, HMIs, and other control devices with an emphasis on fault recovery.
• Extensive experience integrating control systems with mechanical and software components.
• Expertise in robotics, automation systems, vision systems, servo controls, and sensor integration.
• Familiarity with Rockwell Control/Compact Logix platform and writing PLC code from scratch.
• Competency in AutoCAD Electrical and electrical component selection.
• Strong project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interacting with customers and internal teams.

Education & Training Requirements

• BSEE or BSEET with 5 years of experience in industrial automation and controls development.
• ASEE or ASEET with 10 years of relevant experience.
• Other technical degrees with applicable experience will be considered.

Available Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Medical & dental insurance
• 401k retirement plan
• FSA plan
• Life insurance
• Paid vacation and personal time