Senior Electrical Engineer - Hardware Design

Position Summary

The Senior Electrical Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and implementation of electrical systems and controls for custom automation machinery. This role carries end-to-end ownership of electrical design, from concept through commissioning, while collaborating closely with internal teams and customers to deliver robust, high-performance automation solutions. Experience designing test systems is a plus. The role also provides technical guidance to junior engineers.

Key Responsibilities

•         Design and develop electrical circuits, control systems, and components for custom automation machinery, including PLC systems, VFDs, servo drives, and safety circuits.

•         Create and maintain detailed electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).

•         Perform electrical load calculations and determine required Safety Performance Levels (PL) for machine safety circuits.

•         Collaborate with internal and external customers to define requirements and develop tailored automation solutions.

•         Conduct feasibility studies and testing on new and modified designs.

•         Support electrical troubleshooting, debug, and commissioning of machines during build and at customer sites.

•         Use diagnostic tools (oscilloscopes, multimeters, etc.) to analyze and validate electrical and electronic systems.

•         Analyze and resolve hardware design issues.

•         Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.

•         Prepare and maintain technical documentation, including machine manuals, schematics, and design documentation.

•         Lead design reviews and provide technical guidance to junior engineers.

•         Deliver technical presentations to customers and internal stakeholders.

•         Participate in team meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Required Qualifications

•         Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) or related field.

•         Minimum of 5 years of experience in electrical hardware design for industrial automation or controls.

•         Strong understanding of electrical systems and industrial controls, including PLCs, VFDs, servo drives, and machine safety.

•         Proficiency in electrical calculations (thermal load, arc flash, power distribution, etc.).

•         Hands-on experience with AutoCAD; AutoCAD Electrical and/or EPLAN experience is a plus.

•         Knowledge of industry standards and regulations.

•         Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

•         Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.

•         Strong technical writing skills for manuals, proposals, and design documentation.

•         Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

•         Excellent organizational and time-management skills with the ability to meet project deadlines.

•         Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

•         Self-motivated with a commitment to staying current on emerging electrical technologies and industry best practices.

Preferred Qualifications

•         Experience with test machine functionality and test system design, including signal conditioning (up to 1 kHz), data acquisition, and end-of-line or development test equipment.

•         PLC and/or test software development, debug, and commissioning experience.

•         Professional Engineer (PE) certification.

Automation Controls and Engineering (ACE) is a growing, innovative automation manufacturing company specializing in custom turnkey automation solutions and integration. ACE provides tailored Automation Solutions that maximize efficiency and simplicity by leveraging technology and innovation.