PLC Controls Engineer

Key Responsibilities

Control System Design & Programming

• Design, develop, program, and test PLC software using Structured Text (IEC 61131-3).

• Develop modular, maintainable, and well-documented software architectures using reusable Add-On Instructions (AOIs) or Function Blocks.

• Develop closed-loop motion control systems involving position, velocity, torque, and tension control.

• Interface PLC systems with servo drives, VFDs, encoders, resolvers, load cells, analog/digital sensors, and hydraulic/electric actuators.

• Integrate PLC systems with vessel and plant-level control systems using industrial communication protocols such as EtherCAT, CANbus, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, OPC-UA, J1939, and NMEA 2000.

• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and panel drawings to support system integration and troubleshooting.

Safety & Reliability

• Develop and implement safety systems, including interlocks, emergency stops, fault detection, and fault-handling strategies.

• Apply functional safety principles consistent with applicable standards such as IEC 62061, ISO 13849, or equivalent.

• Apply systematic engineering practices to ensure reliable operation in demanding marine, offshore, and specialty environments.

HMI & Operator Interfaces

• Develop and configure HMI systems for real-time monitoring, diagnostics, and operator control.

• Design intuitive HMI screens with a focus on operational clarity, alarm management, and operator safety.

• Work with platforms such as FactoryTalk View ME/SE, Siemens WinCC, Ignition, or comparable systems.

Integration, Testing & Commissioning

• Plan and execute Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).

• Develop formal test procedures, documentation, and reports.

• Lead system integration and testing in laboratory and field environments, including vessel and offshore applications.

• Commission deployed control systems and provide technical support for fielded equipment.

• Troubleshoot complex control-system issues under operational and time-sensitive conditions.

Documentation & Configuration Management

• Prepare detailed technical documentation, including:

Software functional descriptions

I/O lists

FAT/SAT procedures

System-level documentation packages

• Maintain software configuration using Git or other version-control systems.

• Maintain clear revision histories and software documentation throughout the development lifecycle.

Required Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship required.

• Ability to successfully complete applicable background checks or security-clearance requirements imposed by relevant U.S. government agencies.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline; a Master's degree is preferred.

• 5+ years of PLC programming experience.

• Strong experience with PLC programming using Structured Text / IEC 61131-3.

• Experience developing HMI applications using FactoryTalk View ME/SE, Siemens WinCC, Ignition, or equivalent platforms.

• Experience with real-time motion control and industrial automation systems.

• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control-panel drawings.

• Experience with industrial communication protocols and control-system integration.

• Programming or scripting experience in Python, MATLAB, C, or C++ for analysis, simulation, or engineering support.

• Experience with Git or other version-control systems.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with maritime, marine, offshore, robotics, specialty equipment, or themed entertainment systems.

• Experience with winches, cranes, LARS, robotic handling systems, electromechanical actuators, or similar motion-control applications.

• Experience with servo drives, VFDs, encoders, resolvers, load cells, and hydraulic/electric actuators.

• Experience with FAT/SAT, field commissioning, and system-level troubleshooting.

• Familiarity with functional safety standards and safety-critical control systems.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary

• Medical insurance

• Dental insurance

• Paid time off

• On-site work environment

Synectics is a leading staffing and workforce solutions company dedicated to connecting exceptional talent with top organizations. We specialize in IT, engineering, finance, healthcare, and professional services recruitment, offering both contract and permanent staffing solutions. With a people-first approach, we focus on understanding the unique needs of our clients and candidates to create long-term, successful matches. Our mission is to empower businesses with the right talent while helping professionals achieve rewarding career opportunities