Principal Engineer

Principal Engineer

As a Principal Engineer in our Innovation Center, you will design, develop, and integrate advanced automation systems that improve the quality, efficiency, and reliability of magnet wire manufacturing. This hands-on role offers the opportunity to lead controls projects from initial design through programming, system integration, and commissioning while collaborating with cross-functional and global engineering teams to develop innovative manufacturing solutions.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Design and develop control systems from the ground up, including electrical schematics, PLC programming, hardware configuration, and technical documentation.

• Lead the integration of electrical, mechanical, and software components into fully functional automated systems.

• Develop and optimize machine automation, SCADA applications, industrial networks, and machine vision inspection systems.

• Support equipment installation, startup, testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting to ensure reliable system performance.

• Collaborate with mechanical, process, electronics, IT/OT, and global Innovation Teams to develop new equipment and improve existing manufacturing processes.

• Identify opportunities to implement emerging technologies, including advanced automation, data analytics, and AI-driven solutions.

• Manage project timelines, technical documentation, equipment specifications, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Ensure designs and implementations meet applicable electrical, safety, and cybersecurity standards.

• Provide technical guidance and support to operators, technicians, and engineering colleagues.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or a related field.

• 5+ years of relevant engineering experience, with strong hands-on experience in controls design and full-system integration.

• Demonstrated ability to design control systems from scratch, including electrical design, PLC programming, hardware integration, and commissioning.

• Experience creating electrical schematics using AutoCAD Electrical or similar software.

• Experience with PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Keyence, or Beckhoff preferred.

• Experience with SCADA systems, preferably Ignition, and industrial communication protocols preferred.

• Knowledge of industrial electrical standards, including NEC and NFPA 70E.

• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, communication, and project execution skills.

• Self-driven mindset with a passion for innovation, continuous improvement, and hands-on engineering.

Work Environment & Travel

• On-site, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

• Approximately 20% travel, including visits to other Essex facilities and occasional overnight trips for equipment installation, commissioning, and startup.