Job Summary
Controls Hardware Designer is responsible for architecting, designing, and validating electrical control systems for automated machinery and industrial processes. This role focuses on panel layouts, power distribution, and integrating programmable controllers, safety systems, and industrial communication networks
Core Responsibilities
- Control Panel Design: Create comprehensive electrical schematics and physical layout blueprints for industrial control panels and enclosures.
- Power Distribution: Design low-to-medium voltage power distribution systems, ensuring correct sizing for circuit breakers, fuses, transformers, and contactors.
- Component Integration: Select and integrate Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), servo systems, and industrial sensors.
- Safety System Design: Architect failsafe safety circuits incorporating safety relays, light curtains, E-stops, and interlocks to protect factory operators.
- Network Architecture: Design industrial network topologies utilizing protocols like EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus, and EtherCAT.
- Field Wiring & Routing: Specify cable types, conduit sizing, and terminal block arrangements for field wiring between control panels and machinery.
- Testing & Commissioning: Perform factory acceptance testing (FAT) and provide occasional on-site support for equipment commissioning and troubleshooting.
Required Technical Skills
- Industrial CAD Software: High proficiency in specialized electrical design tools, specifically EPLAN Electric P8 or AutoCAD Electrical.
- Regulatory Codes: Deep working knowledge of industrial safety and electrical standards, notably NFPA 70 (NEC), NFPA 79, and UL 508A (or IEC 60204 for European markets).
- Motor Control: Mastery of motor control circuits, including direct-on-line starters, soft starters, and VFD configurations.
- Short Circuit Calculations: Ability to calculate short-circuit current ratings (SCCR) and perform voltage drop calculations.
Soft Skills & Environment
- On-Site Adaptability: Comfort working in active manufacturing environments, assembly floors, or construction zones during project deployment.
- Collaboration: Ability to collaborate closely with Controls/PLC Programmers, Mechanical Engineers, and electrical technicians.
- Vendor Management: Experience communicating with component suppliers and panel fabrication shops to ensure parts meet specifications.
Education & Experience Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
- Familiarity with GM GCCH and Ford GVOSS standards.
- Experience: 3+ years of experience designing electrical control systems specifically for industrial automation, robotics, or system integration.
Branex Group is a Minority-owned Technical Staffing firm headquartered in Auburn Hills, MI. We are a Certified Women’s Owned Business through the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). We specialize in Engineering, Information Technology, Robotics, Human Resources, and Finance opportunities across the United States.
Branex Group is committed to being an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We ensure all applicants and employees are considered without discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability status, genetics, or any other protected characteristic by State and Federal laws.
Branex Group offers the following benefits:
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision insurance
- Paid time off
- 401(k)
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.