Electrical​/Controls Engineer - Waukegan, IL

Electrical / Controls Engineer - Waukegan, IL

Since 1792, we’ve been supplying the innovative paints and coatings that help to color people’s lives and protect what matters most. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. We’re active in more than 150 countries and use our expertise to sustain and enhance the fabric of everyday life.

Because we believe every surface is an opportunity. It’s what you’d expect from a pioneering and long‑established paints company that’s dedicated to providing sustainable solutions and preserving the best of what we have today – while creating an even better tomorrow. Let’s paint the future together.

The Electrical / Controls Engineer position supports the site in their manufacturing electrical and automation journey through technical capability to specify, install, maintain, and safeguard electrical, Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and associated systems. The Electrical / Controls Engineer further collaborates with site and regional teams to augment existing instrumentation and controls capabilities, capture future opportunities, and create road maps for automation projects that support business objectives.

• Primarily responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the site electrical, instrumentation and control (I&C) systems, including performing minor changes to switchgears, PLC system, routine maintenance and backups, troubleshooting assistance, creating preventative maintenance (PM) and asset life‑cycle plans, creating spare parts strategies, and training site personnel on I&C use and maintenance.
• Determine necessary OEM and third‑party support contract needs for control systems.
• Provide expertise on electrical, instrumentation and control system design for capital and expense projects, specifying equipment (disconnects, conduits, PLC, I/O, instrumentation), topologies, communication protocols, and collaborating with other discipline engineering.
• Develop, update, and maintain the site digital map, including network architecture, equipment locations, IP / MAC addresses used and available, cable routes, etc.
• Collaborate with the Regional Digital Deployment Teams in preparation of digital initiatives (i.e. shutdown management, performance portal, communication boards, etc.).
• Act as Site Cyber Security Officer to ensure Akzo Nobel policies and standards are implemented and accurately reported, execute periodic risk/vulnerability assessments, work with OEMs to mitigate found deficiencies, and lead and train on the control systems security program at the site.
• Maintain data and records for electrical, I&C systems related to Process Safety Management (PSM) processes, including safe operating limits, control system logic diagrams, loop drawings, and critical process interlocks.
• Identify critical instrumentation and control system equipment, maintain up‑to‑date lists, and ensure identified equipment is maintained appropriately.
• Participate in plant Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) studies, including Haz Ops, LOPAs, etc., providing instrumentation and control system expertise for functional safety.
• Maintain good working relationships with OEM and third‑party providers of I&C systems and manage contractors and service providers while on site.
• Liaison with Information Management (IM), OEMs, and contractors in maintaining site industrial control system security.
• Recognize the need for, and seek professional advice and/or assistance for areas beyond specific knowledge and experience.
• Keep close coordination with Digital Architect & ISC Cybersecurity Officer for functional support and guidance.

• Technical Skills
  • Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering, instrumentation engineering, or engineering technology
  • Minimum 5 years of relevant work experience; experience in a chemical or paints & coatings environment a plus
  • Hands‑on control system experience in large, high volume manufacturing facilities
  • Experience in programming and troubleshooting electrical and PLC systems; experience with ABB and Rockwell systems a plus.
  • Previous experience with factory digital…