Controls Designer

Job Description

Job Description

Dakota Automation, in Watertown, SD, is looking to hire a Controls Designer!

Department: Engineering
Reports To: Engineering Manager
Position Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

We are seeking a Controls Designer to join our engineering team in the design and development of custom industrial automation equipment.

This position is responsible for electrical control system design, including schematic development, component selection, control panel layouts, and electrical documentation. The Controls Designer will work closely with mechanical engineers, controls programmers, and manufacturing personnel to develop practical, reliable, and cost-effective solutions.

Our custom equipment environment offers the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects, technologies, and manufacturing applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and machine wiring documentation for custom automation equipment.
• Select and specify electrical components, including PLC hardware, drives, motors, sensors, safety devices, and related control equipment.
• Develop and maintain electrical bills of materials (BOMs) and design documentation.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers and controls programmers to ensure proper integration of electrical and mechanical systems.
• Design electrical systems in accordance with applicable industry standards and customer requirements.
• Support electrical assembly personnel by answering design questions and resolving documentation issues.
• Participate in design reviews and identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability, safety, and manufacturability.
• Complete assigned design work within established project schedules.
• Assist with electrical troubleshooting and design modifications during equipment assembly and testing.

Education, Skills & Experience

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation Technology, or a related technical field.
• Fundamental understanding of electrical circuits, industrial controls, and electrical components.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical documentation.
• Experience with electrical CAD software such as AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, or similar platforms, or the aptitude to learn.
• Familiarity with industrial control hardware, including PLCs, motor controls, VFDs, servo systems, sensors, and machine safety devices.
• Knowledge of applicable electrical standards, including NFPA 79, NEC, and UL 508A, is beneficial.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively with engineering and manufacturing teams.
• Previous experience with industrial machinery or automation equipment is beneficial but not required.

Candidates with relevant technical education, strong aptitude, and a willingness to learn are encouraged to apply, including those with limited industry experience.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and enjoys solving technical challenges. They have a practical approach to electrical design, communicate effectively with engineering and manufacturing teams, and are comfortable working in an environment where each project presents new requirements and challenges.

They take ownership of their work, demonstrate a willingness to learn, and appreciate seeing their designs become functioning equipment.

What We Offer

• Diverse and challenging projects involving custom industrial automation.
• A collaborative engineering and manufacturing environment.
• Opportunities for technical growth and professional development.
• Competitive compensation and benefits based on experience and qualifications.
  • 401K with match
  • Flexible schedule
  • Competitive PTO
  • Bonus plan