Senior Electrical Controls Engineer

Position Overview:

We are a leading OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) specializing in custom-engineered process and handling systems to companies in the pharmaceutical, food, chemical and cosmetics industries. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Controls Engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience designing industrial control systems from the ground up, with a strong emphasis on AutoCAD Electrical for CAD design and Allen-Bradley-based hardware and software platforms, including PLCs, HMIs, and VFDs. This position will play a key role in developing, implementing, and supporting automation systems for our machines. The ideal candidate will have a solid understanding of end-to-end control system lifecycle, from design to customer handoff.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop industrial control systems utilizing AutoCAD Electrical, including panel layouts, wiring diagrams, and I/O schematics.
• Program, debug, and commission Allen-Bradley PLCs (CompactLogix, ControlLogix, Micro800), HMIs (FactoryTalk View SE/ME, Panelview 800), and VFDs (PowerFlex series).
• Lead the electrical controls portion of machine projects from concept through FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing), installation, and SAT (Site Acceptance Testing).
• Develop, write, and maintain detailed Software Development Specifications (SDS) that outline system functionality, sequence of operations, PLC/HMI structures, and communication protocols for internal teams and end users.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical engineering, panel builders, and project managers to ensure machine functionality meets customer specifications.
• Troubleshoot and optimize control systems to ensure safety, reliability, and efficiency.
• Maintain and update documentation, backups, and version control for control systems.
• Provide training and support to customer maintenance and operations staff.
• Provide input on standards development, best practices, and design improvements.
• Manage multiple projects in different states simultaneously.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, or related engineering field (not a must if you have serious experience).
• 5+ years of experience in controls/automation engineering, including full project lifecycle ownership.
• Proven experience designing complete control systems from scratch (concept to commissioning).
• Strong proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical for control panel and wiring design.
• In-depth knowledge of Rockwell Automation/Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMIs, and VFDs.
• Familiarity with virtualization, Windows Server, SCADA systems, industrial networks, and/or data acquisition/batch reporting tools is a plus.
• Excellent troubleshooting, documentation, and communication skills.
• Ability to travel occasionally for customer installations and support.
• Experience with safety PLCs and machine safety design (e.g., GuardLogix, risk assessments).
• Knowledge of UL, NFPA, and CE electrical standards.
• Experience with additional control system environments and manufacturers (Siemens, ABB, Schneider, etc.).
• Experience with Servo motor control.
• Exposure to industrial protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, OPC UA).