Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

Location: Sterling, MA

About the Role

A growing automation systems integrator specializing in custom machine building and systems integration is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join its team in Sterling, MA. This is a high-impact role suited for a professional who thrives in a project-driven environment - someone capable of owning electrical design and programming from concept through commissioning while confidently managing schedules, budgets, and vendor relationships.

Key Responsibilities

Programming Proficiency:

Program and configure PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) systems, as well as safety controllers, motion control, and vision systems using industry-standard software tools including Allen-Bradley, Cognex, Keyence, SICK, Siemens, Bosch, Omron, CoDeSys, and Mitsubishi.

Electrical Design:

Develop overall system architecture, industrial electrical schematics, and electrical control panel layouts based on industry-standard best practices using 2D CAD systems.

BOM Management:

Create, maintain, and manage Bills of Materials (BOMs) for active projects across all phases - from concept through build and commissioning - ensuring accuracy and version control throughout the project lifecycle.

Design Standards:

Apply and uphold internal and industry-standard best practices related to engineering design across electrical control systems, including material selection and vendor component specifications. Contribute to the ongoing refinement of internal standards documentation.

Budget and Schedule Execution:

Execute projects in line with planned budgets and schedules. Track electrical hours and material spend against estimates, flag variances early, and actively participate in project reviews and corrective planning.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

Collaborate closely with mechanical engineers, assembly technicians, and project managers to ensure designs are integration-ready and support on-time machine delivery.

Customer Site Support:

Participate in Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs) and, as needed, support field installation and commissioning at customer sites.

System Analysis and Troubleshooting:

Conduct thorough system analysis, testing, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal operation and performance of automation systems.

Technical Support and Training:

Provide expert technical support and training to engineers, technicians, and customers, ensuring effective operation of systems.

Compliance and Safety:

Ensure all projects meet regulatory standards and adhere to strict safety requirements.

Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or an equivalent technical discipline required.

Experience:

Minimum of 3 years of electrical engineering experience, ideally within an industrial or manufacturing environment. Broad exposure across multiple industries or experience with automation equipment builders is a strong plus.

Technical Proficiency:

Proficiency in PLC programming and configuration, with experience in Allen-Bradley, Siemens, CoDeSys, or Mitsubishi platforms. Familiarity with motion control, vision systems, sensor integration, and data acquisition systems is preferred.

BOM & Documentation:

Experience creating structured BOMs and electrical drawing packages throughout the full project lifecycle is preferred.

Vendor & Procurement Knowledge:

Experience working with and critically reviewing vendor quotes, as well as managing supplier relationships, is preferred.

Project Execution:

Demonstrated track record of delivering work on time and within budget in a project-based or job-shop environment. Familiarity with change order processes is a plus.

Small-Shop Mindset:

Comfort working in a lean, fast-paced environment where engineers are self-directed, take on multiple responsibilities, and own project outcomes. Prior experience with a small integrator or custom machine builder is strongly preferred.

Communication:

Strong, clear communication skills when working with internal teams, customers, and vendors.

Work Environment

• Daily work performed in an office or shop floor environment
• Occasional field or service work at customer locations may require overnight travel, extended hours, and weekend work in production or manufacturing environments

Partnership with a Broader Automation Platform

The organisation is part of a larger automation platform backed by a private investment group, built to serve North American manufacturers with advanced automation and integration solutions. Through this partnership, the team has access to expanded resources and sister-company capabilities in panel fabrication, SCADA/MES, machine vision, and robotics - enabling the delivery of highly complex projects across industries including food & beverage, life sciences, aerospace & defence, and more.