What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controls Programmer position at Thompson Solutions Group?
About the Role
We’re looking for a controls professional who thrives on building reliable automation from PLC logic to intuitive HMIs and turning project specifications into robust, tested code. You’ll collaborate with project managers, engineers, and clients to deliver integrated solutions, and then be hands-on during commissioning and start-up to ensure everything runs as intended.
What You’ll Do
- Design & program PLC systems using Rockwell Studio 5000, RSLogix 5000, and RSLogix 500
- Design & configure HMIs using Rockwell FactoryTalk View ME/SE and Studio 5000 View Designer
- Translate control narratives, P&IDs, and electrical diagrams into well‑structured PLC code; compile, test, and document thoroughly
- Build HMI screens that enable safe, efficient operation and add data acquisition/reporting features per spec
- Provide plant checkout, commissioning, and start-up services on customer sites; troubleshoot and support existing client applications
- Configure/troubleshoot Ethernet hardware (Gateways like ProSoft/EWON, managed switches), VFDs, and process instrumentation
- Integrate/network PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and third-party devices across control networks (EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, Modbus TCP)
What You’ll Bring
- Experience with Rockwell Automation tools: Studio 5000, RSLogix 500/5000, FactoryTalk View ME/SE, Studio 5000 View Designer; proficiency with Microsoft Office
- Education: Associate’s in Industrial Controls, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field; 0–4 years experience (or equivalent mix)
- Ability to configure & troubleshoot electrical control circuits (analog/digital wiring, relay logic)
- Knowledge of VFD programming/configuration, control wiring, and Ethernet control
- Ability to read engineering specs, electrical schematics, control narratives, and P&ID drawings
- Strong troubleshooting across controls/devices; knowledge of manufacturing & mechanical systems
- Clear communication, collaboration, and organization to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
- Valid driver’s license; willingness to travel between offices and customer sites
Ideal Candidate
Demonstrates Level 2 proficiency or above in our technical progression framework, is comfortable with analog loops and a process meter, can create FTView SE projects, complete small water/wastewater projects, pass data between processors via message instructions, provide remote service, and shows a solid understanding of Ethernet networking.
Growth & Skill Progression (Levels 1–5)
- Level 1: Foundations - lift station logic in RSLogix/Studio 5000; FTView ME projects; motor run/fail & alternation; schematic edits; multimeter use
- Level 2: Systems & networking - analog signal loops & process meter; FTView SE projects; small water/wastewater projects; messaging between processors; remote service
- Level 3: Advanced tools - Win911, XL Reporter; PID tuning (pressure, level, flow); radio systems; remote access; full water/wastewater project delivery
- Level 4: Complex architectures - indirect addressing for multi‑PLC control; protocols (DF1, Modbus RTU/TCP, ControlNet, DeviceNet, EtherNet/IP); lead programmers; troubleshoot complex Ethernet networks
- Level 5: Enterprise scale - layout FTView SE Network Distributed systems; create/test new AOIs for code library
Thompson Solutions Group is an EEO Employer