Electrical Controls Engineer

Electrical Controls Engineer

The Electrical Controls Engineer designs, programs, and supports automated industrial control systems, combining strong hands-on electrical expertise with advanced PLC and HMI programming skills. This role focuses on delivering robust electrical control system designs, schematics, and software solutions for custom automated equipment while managing multiple projects, collaborating closely with design engineers, manufacturing teams, and customers.

• Design and develop electrical control systems, including detailed schematics and layouts for automated industrial equipment and control panels.
• Program industrial PLCs using Rockwell platforms (500/5000 level) and develop HMI applications with Factory Talk View software to support automated systems.
• Configure and program controls using Beckhoff platforms and TwinCAT software to meet system performance and reliability requirements.
• Integrate I/O with electrical control devices and implement industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet, Mod Bus, and Device Net.
• Participate in tuning closed-loop control systems and adjusting PID algorithms for variable (analog) I/O interfaces to optimize system performance.
• Perform hands-on electrical system design, assembly, wiring, and troubleshooting, ensuring proper integration of electrical components into panel designs.
• Apply a basic understanding of power distribution and safety requirements in electrical panel design to create compliant and reliable systems.
• Create and maintain electrical drawings and layouts using AutoCAD Electrical and adhere to established drawing standards.
• Ensure designs comply with NEC Codes and Electrical Standards for Industrial Machinery applicable to industrial plant installations.
• Consider UL, CSA, and CE requirements in designs where applicable, supporting certification efforts when needed.
• Collaborate with design engineers to develop cost-effective, custom automated solutions for industrial applications.
• Occasionally assist manufacturing teams in building and testing custom automated systems to validate design intent and functionality.
• Support customers with installation, commissioning, and setup of automated systems as requested, including on-site assistance.
• Manage both short-term and long-term projects, balancing competing priorities and meeting aggressive schedules while maintaining quality.
• Demonstrate leadership by taking initiative, making sound decisions, and maintaining accountability for project outcomes.
• Provide excellent customer service through clear written communication and responsive technical support.
• Work effectively within a team environment, sharing knowledge and collaborating to resolve technical challenges.

• Electrical/Controls Engineering degree or equivalent BS degree in a related field.
• 5+ years of related engineering experience in electrical controls or automation.
• Minimum 2 years of experience with Rockwell PLC platforms (500/5000 level) and Factory Talk View HMI software.
• Minimum 2 years of experience with Beckhoff controls and TwinCAT PLC software.
• Proven ability to program industrial PLCs and develop HMI applications for automated systems.
• Strong hands-on experience in electrical system design, panel assembly, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to integrate I/O with electrical control devices and configure industrial communication platforms such as Ethernet, Mod Bus, and Device Net.
• Basic understanding of power and safety requirements in electrical panel design.
• Familiarity with NEC Codes and Electrical Standards for Industrial Machinery in industrial plant installations.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD Electrical and adherence to electrical drawing standards.
• Working knowledge of automated systems and components in an industrial environment.
• Demonstrated project management skills for handling both short-term and long-term engineering projects.
• Strong leadership qualities, including initiative, accountability, and sound decision-making.
• Ability to function effectively within a collaborative team environment.
• Excellent customer service orientation and strong written communication skills.
• Self-motivated mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.

• Experience with Wonderware HMI software is beneficial but not required.
• Experience tuning closed-loop control systems and working with variations of PID algorithms is advantageous.
• Experience in variable (analog) I/O interface control.
• Exposure to UL, CSA, and CE standards and certification processes is a plus.
• Experience in the automated equipment industry or similar industrial automation environments.
• Broad understanding of automation and controls engineering principles.
• Ability to support manufacturing and testing activities for custom automated systems.
• Capacity to provide on-site customer support for installation and commissioning when needed.

Job Type &

Location:

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Warrenville, IL.

Pay and…