Job at a glance
Controls Engineer Job Description This Controls Engineer role focuses on supporting projects that range from small feasibility studies to large, multi-million-dollar turnkey systems. You will develop electrical specifications, design control systems, and program PLC and HMI solutions for complex research and development facilities across automotive, motorsports, defense, nuclear, and aerospace markets.
The position requires a team-oriented, organized engineer who communicates effectively at all levels of the organization and consistently meets deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities Develop detailed electrical specifications for equipment selection and system components, ensuring designs meet project and client requirements (approximately 50–60% of the role). Define and document control system architectures, including instrumentation, control panels, and field devices, for complex test and research facilities.
Program, configure, and test PLC-based control systems, primarily using Allen-Bradley / Rockwell platforms, while remaining flexible to work with other PLC platforms as needed (approximately 40–50% of the role). Design and implement HMI applications using FactoryTalk or similar HMI software to provide intuitive operator interfaces and robust system monitoring. Contribute to control system design, including instrumentation controls, automation strategies, and integration of sensors, transmitters, actuators, and motion control systems.
Develop, review, and maintain instrumentation and control documentation, such as data sheets, I/O lists, and control narratives, using provided standards and references. Support the design, construction, and operation of specialized facilities such as wind tunnels, rocket test stands, climatic chambers, jet engine test cells, acoustic chambers, altitude test facilities, captive trajectory systems, and nuclear-related facilities.
Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of control systems with mechanical, electrical, and data acquisition systems. Participate in project meetings with internal teams and customers to clarify requirements, present design concepts, and provide technical updates. Travel to customer sites to support installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of control and instrumentation systems, ensuring successful startup and operation.
Configure and commission control devices such as PLCs, HMIs, variable frequency drives (VFDs), servo drives, industrial instrumentation, and data acquisition measurement systems. Implement and tune PID control loops and motion control strategies to meet performance, safety, and reliability requirements. Assist in diagnosing and resolving control system issues, both remotely and on-site, to minimize downtime and improve system performance.
Prepare and maintain technical documentation, including test plans, commissioning reports, and as-built records for delivered systems. Work within established schedules and budgets, proactively managing tasks and communicating progress to project leaders. Support continuous improvement of engineering standards, tools, and processes related to controls, electrical, and instrumentation engineering. Essential Skills Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or Computer Engineering from an ABET-accredited engineering program.
At least 1 year of engineering experience in controls or electrical engineering. Experience writing PLC code using Rockwell / Allen-Bradley platforms or other PLC systems. Hands-on PLC programming skills, including development, testing, and troubleshooting of industrial control logic. HMI programming experience using FactoryTalk or other HMI software platforms. Strong interest in electronics, instrumentation, and industrial control systems.
Experience with control and data acquisition systems, including integration of sensors, transmitters, and actuators. Familiarity with variable freq