Cogent, Inc. is seeking a Controls Systems Designer to join our team in Kansas City. The Controls Systems Designer is responsible for developing accurate, production-ready electrical schematics and control panel layouts for industrial and municipal automation systems. This role works closely with Controls Engineers, project managers, and fabrication teams to translate control strategies, specifications, and redlines into clear, compliant AutoCAD Electrical drawings.
You’ll apply your controls design knowledge, electrical fundamentals, and drafting expertise to support the successful execution of automation projects, ensuring designs are buildable, maintainable, and aligned with Cogent standards and customer requirements.
Develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts for industrial control panels based on approved control strategies and engineering direction
Translate engineer redlines, specifications, and design intent into accurate AutoCAD Electrical drawings
Create and maintain AutoCAD Electrical project files, drawing sets, and title blocks
Apply Cogent design standards, customer standards, and applicable electrical codes (NEC, UL 508A where applicable)
Coordinate with Controls Engineers to clarify control logic, I/O requirements, device selection, and system architecture
Support fabrication teams by producing clear, build-ready drawings and responding to questions during panel assembly
Assist with design revisions, drawing updates, and redline incorporation throughout the project lifecycle
Participate in internal design reviews and backchecks to ensure drawing accuracy and completeness
Identify design conflicts, missing information, or constructability concerns and escalate to Engineering
Maintain organized documentation and revision control for all assigned projects
Support panel checkout preparation drawing updates as needed based on test results or field feedback
This position is primarily office-based, supporting controls design and documentation activities. Collaboration with engineering, fabrication, and field service teams is routine.
High School diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree or technical certification in drafting, engineering technology, or a related field preferred
Experience developing or modifying electrical schematics and control drawings
Working knowledge of AutoCAD Electrical
Ability to read, interpret, and apply electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control specifications
Understanding of industrial control components (PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, power supplies, relays, terminal blocks)
Familiarity with low-voltage control circuits and basic power distribution (24VDC, 120VAC, 480VAC)
Strong attention to detail and commitment to drawing accuracy
Ability to manage multiple design tasks and deadlines simultaneously
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Experience designing industrial control panels for municipal water/wastewater or industrial automation systems
Working knowledge of UL 508A and NFPA 70 (NEC)
Experience supporting panel fabrication, checkout, or factory acceptance testing (FAT)
Familiarity with Allen-Bradley control platforms (CompactLogix, ControlLogix, PanelView, PowerFlex)
Understanding of PLC I/O architecture and control system design concepts
Interest in professional growth toward Senior Designer, Lead Designer, or Controls Hardware Engineering roles
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to proactively identify design improvements
Cogent is a growing organization focused on delivering engineered automation solutions across municipal and industrial markets. We provide system design, equipment sales, repair services, installation, and long-term support — all with a strong emphasis on quality, reliability, and customer success.
At Cogent, you’re not just an employee — you’re an owner. Through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), every team member has a direct stake in our success. We value accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement, and we invest in our people for the long term.
Employee Ownership (ESOP) – Share in the company’s success
401(k) with Company Match
Profit-Sharing Bonuses
Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance
Generous PTO, Paid Holidays & Volunteer Time Off
Career Development & Advancement Opportunities
A Collaborative Culture that Values Quality, Innovation, and Accountability
At Cogent, great control systems start with strong design. If you take pride in accurate electrical documentation and want to support automation projects that make a real-world impact, we’d love to hear from you.