Controls Engineer II

Controls Engineer II

Steele Solutions Inc. is the nation's leading designer and manufacturer of steel work platforms and mezzanines supporting automation and material handling systems across the U.S. Through our new and rapidly growing Automation Division (SSI Automation), we deliver intelligent, turnkey controls and automation solutions that reduce risk, accelerate deployment, and drive reliable performance.

Under moderate supervision, the Controls Engineer II is responsible for developing, programming, and commissioning control systems for material handling and automation projects. This role builds upon foundational experience, expanding responsibilities to include independent PLC programming, HMI configuration, system documentation, and increased field support. The Controls Engineer II begins contributing to repeatable code modules and supports standardization efforts.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities as management may deem necessary from time to time.

System Architecture & Standardization

• Apply established control system design templates with limited oversight.
• Maintain and modify I/O lists, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts for small to mid-size projects.
• Contribute to development of internal code libraries and reusable HMI components.

Technical Leadership & Execution

• Independently develop PLC code for standard transport conveyor systems and basic sortation.
• Design and configure HMI screens and system visualization tools.
• Conduct FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing) and support SAT (Site Acceptance Testing).
• Perform basic troubleshooting of control hardware and logic in both bench and field settings.

Team Development & Mentorship

• Assist in peer reviews and provide feedback on entry-level engineering work.
• Share knowledge and lessons learned through informal mentoring and documentation.
• Begin developing internal documentation such as how-to guides and templates.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Coordinate with Electrical Engineers to validate I/O design and panel layouts.
• Interface with Project Managers to understand scope, schedule, and deliverables.
• Support installation subcontractors during system build and startup.

Strategic Growth & Innovation

• Identify repeatable patterns in project execution to improve design standards.
• Recommend minor process improvements to internal standards or commissioning workflow.
• Remain current with developments in control platforms, industrial networking, and emerging technologies.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related technical field.
• 2–4 years of experience in controls programming, with demonstrated PLC/HMI project ownership.

Other Key Skills

• Proficiency in programming with RSLogix 5000, Studio 5000, TIA Portal, or TwinCAT.
• HMI experience with Ignition, FactoryTalk View, or similar platforms.
• Understanding safety circuits, VFD integration, and remote I/O architectures.
• Capable of managing workload on 1–2 concurrent projects.
• Ability to travel (up to 20%) for on-site commissioning and support.
• Solid communication and troubleshooting skills.

Steele Solutions offers an opportunity to grow your career while contributing to the development of innovative automation solutions in a collaborative engineering environment.