Controls Engineer - Traveling

Job Title:

Controls Engineer - Traveling

Job Description

The Controls Engineer - Traveling role focuses on commissioning and troubleshooting PLC-based material handling systems in large, complex environments. You will independently develop, debug, and test PLC code, support system-level integration, and ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget. This position requires a strong multi-disciplinary understanding of material handling systems and the ability to solve complex and abstract problems while collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams.

Responsibilities

+ Commission and troubleshoot PLC-controlled material handling systems, including conveyor systems, automated warehousing and distribution systems, baggage handling systems, and other automated systems.

+ Apply customer requirements and specifications to independently write, debug, and test PLC code.

+ Use engineering drawings to develop, debug, and test PLC code in alignment with established standards and libraries.

+ Utilize established AOI libraries and PLC coding standards to ensure consistent, high-quality controls software.

+ Follow documented ways of working and established engineering processes throughout the project lifecycle.

+ Document the progress of assigned tasks clearly and accurately for project tracking and reporting.

+ Write detailed design documents that describe control strategies, system behavior, and implementation details.

+ Develop test plans at integrated system, area, zone, and section levels to validate system functionality.

+ Monitor the internal quality of controls deliverables to achieve high first-pass yield and minimize rework.

+ Perform quality checks on controls deliverables and provide thorough documentation of completion and status.

+ Prepare and review daily and weekly progress reports to keep stakeholders informed of project status.

+ Interface and coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to resolve technical issues and document resolutions for the project lead.

+ Act as an independent contributor on complex, large-scale, and unique projects, ensuring effective execution of controls engineering tasks.

+ Ensure the quality and timeliness of assigned controls project engineering deliverables, meeting project milestones and objectives.

+ Provide expert-level technical support for the installation, programming, and operation of controls hardware and software.

+ Troubleshoot at the system level, understanding how multiple machines and subsystems interact rather than focusing solely on individual machines.

+ Apply knowledge of electrical controls hardware design, communication networks, and power distribution to support system implementation.

+ Support project scheduling activities by understanding and aligning work with the overall project plan.

+ Incorporate machine and system safety standards and design considerations into controls solutions.

+ Prioritize work effectively, take ownership of assigned tasks, and accept responsibility for project completion.

+ Collaborate with other controls engineers and cross-discipline contributors to deliver tangible project results.

+ Research and implement solutions to technical problems, demonstrating a logical and methodical approach to engineering challenges.

Essential Skills

+ Expert-level proficiency in ladder logic programming with Allen-Bradley PLC systems using Studio 5000.

+ Expert-level understanding of the installation, programming, and technical support of controls hardware and software.

+ At least 3+ years of experience commissioning or troubleshooting automated systems such as manufacturing assembly lines, conveyor systems, automated warehousing and distribution systems, or baggage handling systems.

+ Experience working with PLCs in automated environments, including system-level troubleshooting.

+ Strong understanding of electrical controls hardware design, including communication networks and 480 VAC, 120 VAC, and 24 VDC power distribution.

+ Ability to understand and interpret electrical schematics accurately.

+ Solid understanding of networking principles and computer hardware setup related to industrial control systems.

+ Knowledge of computer systems and Windows-based personal computers.

+ Strong understanding of machine and system safety standards and related design considerations.

+ Logical mindset with strong skills in engineering science, logic, and programming.

+ Proven ability to solve problems and research effective technical solutions.

+ Effective verbal and written communication skills for documentation and stakeholder interaction.

+ Ability to work both as part of a team and autonomously with minimal supervision.

+ Demonstrated willingness to accept responsibility for project completion and ownership of deliverables.

+ Ability to prioritize work and manage multiple tasks in a project-driven environment.

+ Willingness to learn new technologies, processes, and tools.

+ Proactive approach to identifying issues and driving continuous improvement.

+ Comfort working…