Controls Engineer - Industrial Automation (PLC / Electro-Mechanical Systems)

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview

We are seeking a Controls Engineer – Vehicle Wash Systems to support the design, programming, commissioning, and ongoing improvement of automated vehicle wash equipment. This role blends PLC controls engineering with strong mechanical troubleshooting ability , requiring hands-on involvement across mechanical, electrical, and software systems.

You will work on small to mid-sized automation projects from design through field startup, ensuring reliable performance of integrated electro-mechanical wash systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, modify, and troubleshoot PLC and HMI control systems for automated vehicle wash equipment
• Support projects from engineering design through field commissioning and startup
• Travel to customer sites (~20%, typically monthly overnight trips) for installations, troubleshooting, and system validation
• Diagnose system failures with a strong emphasis on mechanical root-cause analysis (pumps, conveyors, spray systems, drives)
• Create and update AutoCAD drawings , including mechanical layouts, electrical schematics, and control documentation
• Interpret mechanical prints, wiring diagrams, and system blueprints to ensure correct system integration
• Collaborate with project managers, service, and sales teams on design feasibility, cost, and performance improvements
• Support BOM creation, technical quotes, and upgrade/rebuild recommendations
• Apply continuous improvement and lean principles to improve system reliability and serviceability

Required Qualifications

• ~5+ years in industrial automation/controls engineering with electro-mechanical systems
• Strong hands-on experience with PLC programming, HMI development, and troubleshooting
• Proven ability to diagnose mechanical system issues (pumps, conveyors, spray assemblies, drive mechanisms)
• Experience reading and interpreting mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, and wiring diagrams
• Proficiency in AutoCAD (or similar CAD tools) for mechanical and electrical documentation
• Background in OEM machinery, material handling, packaging, manufacturing automation, or similar environments
• Strong analytical and field troubleshooting skills with hands-on commissioning experience
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

Preferred Experience

• Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Mitsubishi PLC platforms (programming & troubleshooting)
• HMI development and operator interface design
• Experience in wash systems, fluid handling, or spray-based automation (car wash, industrial wash lines, food/beverage, wastewater systems)

Why This Role

Join an industry leader in automated vehicle wash systems where mechanical design, electrical engineering, and PLC automation come together. This role offers hands-on technical work, field exposure, and direct impact on system performance and customer success.