Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

The Controls Engineer designs, develops, and supports control systems for custom industrial equipment and automation projects. This role focuses heavily on PLC programming, system commissioning, and troubleshooting, while working closely with cross-functional teams to deliver reliable, high-performing automation solutions. The position requires a hands-on mindset, strong technical capability in industrial controls, and the ability to support customers both on-site and remotely throughout the project lifecycle.

• Design, program, and modify PLC-based control systems, with a primary focus on Allen-Bradley platforms.
• Develop, configure, and maintain human-machine interfaces (HMIs), electrical controls, and automation systems for custom industrial equipment.
• Support installation, commissioning, and startup activities at customer sites, including hands-on work with equipment and systems.
• Troubleshoot control system issues in real time, identify root causes, and implement effective improvements to enhance reliability and performance.
• Read and interpret electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic schematics to support design, diagnostics, and system modifications.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical engineers, technicians, and customers to ensure systems meet performance, safety, and functional requirements.
• Provide both on-site and remote technical support throughout the entire project lifecycle, from initial design through commissioning and ongoing service.
• Work independently in customer-facing environments, representing the organization professionally and communicating technical information clearly.
• Contribute mechanical aptitude and a hands-on approach to support assembly, testing, and validation of custom equipment when needed.
• Travel to customer locations, primarily within the Midwest, to support installs, startups, troubleshooting, and project-related activities.

• At least 3 years of experience in controls engineering or industrial automation.
• Strong PLC programming experience, with Allen-Bradley PLCs required, including both programming from scratch and modifying existing code.
• Proven troubleshooting and problem-solving ability in industrial environments, particularly with automated equipment and control systems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, as well as pneumatic and hydraulic diagrams.
• Mechanical aptitude and a hands-on mindset for working directly with equipment and machinery.
• Comfortable working independently and being self-sufficient in both shop and field environments.
• Ability to work in customer-facing situations and communicate clearly with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness and ability to travel for project support, including multi-day site visits, at approximately 30% travel.

• Experience with industrial robotics, particularly FANUC or ABB robots.
• Exposure to Siemens PLCs and related automation platforms.
• Familiarity with hydraulics and their application in industrial machinery.
• Experience with machining or metal removal processes and projects in heavy industrial environments.
• Experience in assembly, testing, or commissioning of custom equipment and automated systems.
• Prior experience supporting installs, startups, and customer sites in a hands-on technical role.
• Interest in employee ownership structures such as ESOP plans, where available.
• Ability to manage travel schedules and maintain productivity during extended site assignments.

The role operates in a dynamic industrial automation environment, with a mix of office, shop floor, and customer site settings. The position is hands-on, frequently involving time on the plant floor and around machinery during installation, startup, and troubleshooting activities. Travel is approximately 30%, typically structured as about 12 days on site followed by a short break, and then repeated as project needs require.

Travel is primarily within the Midwest (including states such as Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois), with occasional trips to other regions. Extended site visits of up to roughly two weeks at a time may be required, and all travel expenses are covered with a daily per diem provided. The work involves regular interaction with mechanical and electrical equipment, PLCs, HMIs, robotics, hydraulics, pneumatics, and related industrial…