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…