Industrial Controls Designer

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

General Kinematics is the premier manufacturer of vibrating equipment for the processing of bulk materials. From vibratory feeders to entire process systems, General Kinematics creates the solutions customers require to process even the most difficult materials. We are currently looking for a qualified Industrial Controls Designer to join our team.

Design:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and project managers, to understand project requirements and design control systems that meet those requirements.
• Develop detailed control system designs, including schematic diagrams, wiring layouts, and panel designs, using industry-standard design tools and software.
• Select third-party companies as outside vendors for controls support and act as the company’s liaison, overseeing work quality, accuracy, and timeliness. 
• Select appropriate hardware components, such as PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces), sensors, actuators, and communication devices, to build effective control solutions.
• Program and configure PLCs and HMIs to create logic sequences, control algorithms, and user interfaces that facilitate system operation, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
• Participate in the testing and commissioning of control systems, ensuring proper functionality, responsiveness, and adherence to safety regulations.
• Collaborate with software engineers to integrate control systems with higher-level software and network infrastructures.
• Provide technical support to field service teams during the installation, startup, and maintenance of control systems.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in control system technologies, incorporating best practices and innovative solutions into design processes.

• Proficiency in control system design software and tools, such as AutoCAD, EPLAN, Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000, etc.
• Strong understanding of PLC programming languages (Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagrams, Structured Text) and HMI      development.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (Modbus, Ethernet/IP, Profibus, etc.) and networking concepts.
• Solid knowledge of electrical design principles, circuit analysis, and instrumentation.
• Ability to interpret P&IDs and collaborate with other engineering disciplines.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail to identify and rectify control system issues.
• Excellent communication skills to convey complex technical information 
• Understanding of National Electrical Code (NEC) safety standards and experience designing systems in compliance with relevant regulations.
• Professional certifications (such as Certified Automation Professional, Siemens Certified Programmer) are a plus.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.

Travel: 

· Dependent on workload and will be job-specific

· Estimated at 25% in a given month 

BACKGROUND/EXPERIENCE: To qualify for this position, you will need to have:

• Proven experience (3 -5 years min) working as a Controls Designer or similar role within the industrial automation or manufacturing sector.
• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering preferred, but not required

Pay: $95,000 to $110,000 paid annually. The range provided is a guideline and not a guarantee of compensation. Other factors that are involved in offer decisions include, and are not limited to a candidate’s experience, qualifications, geography, and internal equity.

Benefits: The position also comes with an annual profit-sharing incentive bonus payment. Our benefit programs provide choice and flexibility to meet the needs of you and your family. This includes health and well-being, financial planning tools, career development, PTO, and more.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential

functions of the job.

EOE M/F/D/V

General Kinematics is the premier manufacturer of vibrating equipment for the processing of bulk materials. From vibratory feeders to entire process systems, General Kinematics creates the solutions customers require to process even the most difficult materials. Our systems team works in Cedar Rapid and we manufacture onsite in Crystal Lake, IL.

Company Description

General Kinematics is the premier manufacturer of vibrating equipment for the processing of bulk materials. From vibratory feeders to entire process systems, General Kinematics creates the solutions customers require to process even the most difficult materials. Our systems team works in Cedar Rapid and we manufacture onsite in Crystal Lake, IL.