Controls Engineer – PLC​/Industrial Automation

Job Title:

Controls Engineer – Vehicle Wash Systems (PLC / Industrial Automation)

Location:

Cary, IL 60013 (On-site) | ~20% Travel (Overnight monthly)

We are seeking a Controls Engineer with strong PLC programming and hands‑on mechanical aptitude to support the design, commissioning, and troubleshooting of automated vehicle wash systems. This role blends controls engineering, industrial automation, and mechanical system problem‑solving in both office and field environments.

You will work on electro‑mechanical systems involving pumps, conveyors, spray assemblies, and drive mechanisms—supporting projects from design through startup and ongoing service improvements.

• Design, program, modify, and troubleshoot PLC and HMI systems for automated vehicle wash equipment
• Support projects from engineering design through installation, commissioning, and field startup
• Travel to customer sites (~20%) to assist with system commissioning, troubleshooting, and inspections
• Diagnose and resolve equipment issues with a strong focus on both electrical controls and mechanical root cause analysis
• Create and update AutoCAD drawings including mechanical layouts, electrical schematics, and control documentation
• Interpret mechanical prints, wiring diagrams, and equipment layouts to ensure proper system integration
• Collaborate with project managers, service teams, and sales engineering on project execution and technical support
• Support BOM creation, technical quotes, retrofit recommendations, and system upgrades
• Apply continuous improvement practices to enhance system reliability, performance, and serviceability

• 3–5+ years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or OEM machine building
• Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting experience (Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, or similar)
• Hands‑on experience with HMI development and industrial control systems
• Strong mechanical aptitude with ability to troubleshoot systems such as pumps, conveyors, spray systems, and drive assemblies
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and wiring diagrams
• Experience with AutoCAD or similar CAD tools for engineering documentation
• Background in electro‑mechanical systems in manufacturing, packaging, material handling, or similar automated environments
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills in field and production environments
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across engineering and service teams

• Prior exposure to vehicle wash systems or fluid‑based automation equipment
• Experience in field commissioning, equipment startups, or customer‑facing technical support
• Exposure to lean manufacturing or continuous improvement practices

• On‑site role based in Cary, IL (60013)
• Approximately 20% travel (typically monthly overnight site visits)
• Local candidates within commuting distance are strongly preferred due to on‑site requirements