What are the responsibilities and job description for the LEAD ENGINEER for PROCESS and CONTROLS position at Ruiter Innovations?
PROCESS and CONTROLS ENGINEER
Location: Pella, IA
Company: Ruiter Innovations
Job Type: Full-Time | Permanent
Salary: Negotiable based on experience.
Position Overview
Ruiter Innovations is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Process and Controls Engineer for a direct hire opportunity in Pella, IA. This role offers a strong mix of hands-on site work and technical design/programming responsibilities, with leadership expectations on complex, large-scale automation projects. Ideal for someone who thrives in field-based project environments while driving engineering excellence and process optimization.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary (based on experience)
- Direct hire opportunity
- Benefits eligibility after just 30 days
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of HMI systems (including Wonderware HMI software) with integration of SQL databases, Visual Basic .NET, and C# applications
- Provide technical leadership in PLC programming, troubleshooting, and system optimization
- Work with Rockwell (Allen-Bradley) and Siemens PLC platforms
- Lead configuration and troubleshooting of industrial networks:
- Ethernet/IP
- Profibus
- Oversee electrical control panel design and documentation standards
- Lead control systems design, troubleshooting, and commissioning efforts
- Integrate OEM automation systems across complex environments
- Program and troubleshoot VFDs
- Review and approve electrical schematics and CAD drawings
- Provide technical leadership during site work and project-based activities (approx. 50% hands-on / 50% desk-based)
- Mentor junior engineers and support cross-functional teams
- Drive process improvements and system optimization initiatives
- Apply process engineering principles to improve system performance, throughput, and reliability
- Lead or manage large-scale automation projects, including systems with thousands of I/O points and project budgets.
Travel Requirements
- Travel required for on-site installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting
- Estimated travel: 40%, depending on project workload
- Travel may include overnight stays and occasional extended project assignments
- Ability to travel on short notice as needed
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or equivalent experience (military or industrial controls)
- Strong understanding of process engineering concepts within industrial or manufacturing environments
- Required experience with SQL, Visual Basic .NET, and C# in HMI, SCADA, or industrial application development
- Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale projects and complex systems with thousands of I/O points
- Proven leadership experience in controls engineering or automation projects
- Ability to analyze and improve system performance, efficiency, and reliability
- Strong troubleshooting skills using tools such as multimeters and oscilloscopes
- Ability to read and approve electrical schematics and blueprints
- CAD experience (schematics and panel design)
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
- Strong project management, leadership, and organizational skills
- Ability to work independently and lead teams with minimal supervision
- Stable and consistent work history
Embrace this opportunity to elevate manufacturing processes through innovative controls! We’re committed to fostering a vibrant work environment where your expertise fuels operational excellence while supporting your professional growth every step of the way.
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person