Electrical Applications Engineer- Field

GENERAL SUMMARY

The Electrical Applications Engineer is responsible for programming, debugging, and troubleshooting electrical and control systems on new and existing press equipment — both in-house and at customer sites. This role is highly hands-on and customer-facing, with primary focus on systems debug, field troubleshooting, startup, and controls support. Travel to domestic and international customer locations is required (approximately 50%).

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

a. Engineer, design, and modify control programs from concept through startup using Rockwell, Siemens, Mitsubishi, and other specified software platforms.

b. Perform programming, setup, and troubleshooting for:

• PLCs
• VFDs
• HMI/SCADA systems
• Motion control systems
• Industrial communication networks (Ethernet/IP, Profibus, Remote I/O)

c. Lead on-site and remote startup, debug, commissioning, and system validation activities.

d. Diagnose and resolve electrical and controls-related field issues, working directly with customers and internal service teams.

e. Work with mechanical engineering teams to support system layouts, panel design, sequence of operations, and integration activities.

f. Ensure all electrical systems conform to applicable safety standards, codes, and technical specifications.

g. Create and maintain control panel drawings, wiring schematics, BOMs, and associated documentation.

h. Support development of operations manuals, troubleshooting guides, and customer training content.

i. Assist with aftermarket service activities including controls upgrades, modifications, and retrofit support.

j. Serve as a technical resource to field service technicians and customers for electrical and programming issues.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

• Approximately 50% travel (domestic and international as required).
• On-site support during equipment startup, debug, and troubleshooting remains a core function of the role.

BASIC PURPOSE

• Serve as the primary technical resource for electrical, programming, and controls-related equipment issues.
• Provide proactive field support, troubleshooting, and customer assistance.
• Ensure timely and professional resolution of technical issues to maximize equipment uptime and customer satisfaction.

PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Provide remote and on-site troubleshooting support through program review, system diagnostics, and equipment connectivity.
• Perform minor program modifications and hardware adjustments as required.
• Support service quoting and repair recommendations when controls issues are identified.
• Coordinate with Field Service, Engineering, and Manufacturing teams as needed to resolve customer issues and drive improvement.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Act as application expert for electrical and programming-related service issues.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives in controls and troubleshooting practices.
• Perform duties requiring flexibility, problem-solving, and customer-focused service execution.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Experience with Allen Bradley / Rockwell Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk View.
• Mitsubishi controls and motion experience (preferred).
• Siemens TIA Portal (a plus).
• Strong troubleshooting and root-cause diagnostic capability.
• AutoCAD Electrical experience.
• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Excellent communication skills for customer and internal team interaction.
• Ability to work independently in field environments and manage priorities effectively.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electro-Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in PLC/HMI programming, controls troubleshooting, or industrial automation.
• Experience with large automated machinery or press equipment (preferred but not required).

PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong customer-service mindset with professional communication style.
• Ability to thrive in both shop-floor and field environments.
• Positive attitude, problem-solver, collaborative team contributor.