Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer - Job Description

Position Summary

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Controls Engineer to design, develop, program, and support industrial automation and control systems. The Controls Engineer will work closely with engineering, operations, and maintenance teams to improve system performance, reliability, and efficiency across manufacturing or industrial processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical control systems, PLC programs, HMI/SCADA applications, and automation solutions.
• Program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLCs such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider, or Omron platforms.
• Configure and maintain industrial communication networks including Ethernet/IP, Modbus, ProfiNet, and DeviceNet.
• Develop and interpret electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams using AutoCAD Electrical.
• Support commissioning, startup, and validation of automated equipment and systems.
• Troubleshoot automation, instrumentation, and process control issues to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and production teams on system integration projects.
• Maintain documentation including control narratives, I/O lists, functional specifications, and operating procedures.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, electrical codes, and company engineering practices.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, and reliability.
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor's/Associate's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related technical field.
• 2 years of experience in industrial automation or controls engineering.
• Experience with PLC programming and HMI/SCADA development.
• Knowledge of VFDs, servo systems, sensors, instrumentation, and industrial controls.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings and technical documentation.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and project coordination abilities.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in manufacturing, food processing, automotive, packaging, energy, or process industries.
• Familiarity with AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN.
• Experience with robotics integration or motion control systems.
• Knowledge of industrial cybersecurity and network architecture.
• PE license or relevant automation certifications are a plus.
  
  

Work Environment

• Combination of office and industrial plant floor environments.
• May require occasional travel for commissioning or customer support.
• Ability to work around industrial equipment and respond to off-hours support needs when necessary.
  
  

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development and training opportunities
  
  

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.

GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.