Principal Controls Engineer

Principal Controls Engineer

JLG is seeking a Principal Controls Engineer to lead manufacturing system projects. This individual is responsible for developing control system applications that are a key to the success of the JLG Business and Operational Technology practice. This individual must provide leadership in project implementation and technical solutions.

Your Impact

• Act as Subject Matter Expert in factory controls while leading factory control systems projects interfacing with Digital Technology and Operations teams
• Able to lead PFMEAs in collaboration with project team members
• Design and build control panels
• Read/Write/Solution PLCs, SCADA (Ignition), HMIs, and other controls systems
• Facilitate test case development and implementation
• Develop and enforce a standard operating procedure (SOP) for project startups, ensuring that all necessary equipment and documentation are prepared and reviewed in advance
• Perform startups, customer/end user training, and field troubleshooting
• Perform equipment upgrades and retrofits, as required
• Level 3 support for the plants on control systems
• Responsible for schematic creation, controls layouts, BOM creation and other design documentation ensuring accuracy and maintain as-built drawings
• Responsible for electrical drawing approvals
• Ensure thorough documentation of all work, including technical details, changes, and project progress
• Conduct regular debriefs to discuss project progress, challenges, and ensure corrective actions are taken
• Define standard components list, electrical standards and programming standards
• Travel up to 20%

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in one of the following:
  Electrical Engineering;
  Electronics Engineering;
  Software Engineering; or Related Field
• Five (5) or more years of relevant experience.

Standout Qualifications

• Experience with electrical and automation components, circuits, standards, and common practices
• Significant experience solutioning & developing code on controls systems including PLCs, SCADA & HMIs
• Experience with Rockwell PLCs, VFDs, and Ignition EDGE
• Understands communication protocols such as Ether Net/IP, Modbus TCP/IP, MQTT, Profinet, Modbus RTU, and others
• Competent in SQL - reads/writes
• Basic understanding of networking
• Adept at safety controllers and circuits
• Experience with virtual machines and operating systems
• Understands Servo drives and motors
• Machine Vision and Robotics experience
• Leadership skills with a strong emphasis on proactive management and clear, timely communication
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Good interpersonal skills, motivated and team player
• Detail-oriented with an emphasis on planning, documentation, and follow-up
• Able to adapt to changes in priorities and stay organized in a fast-paced, high-demand environment
• Performs well under pressure and tight deadlines

Working Conditions

• This role combines office-based administrative duties with physical activity in field or production environments.
• In the office setting, tasks may require extended computer use, sitting, and attending meetings.
• Field or floor work may involve walking across various terrains or shop floors, standing, moderate lifting (up to 50 pounds), climbing stairs, and exposure to varying temperatures or noise levels.
• Must be able to shift focus between detailed cognitive work and occasional physical tasks as needed.
• Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities to support performance across both office and field responsibilities.