Controls Specialist

Job Description

As a Controls Specialist at Wheatland Tube a division of Zekelman Industries, Rochelle, IL, you will play a key role in improving and maintaining plant electrical and control systems to enhance safety, productivity, reliability, and cost effectiveness. Reporting to the Plant Manager, this role is responsible for advancing machinery design, leading strategic electrical projects, and maintaining plant software and backup systems for MES and PLC platforms. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a hands-on industrial environment and demonstrates strong leadership and troubleshooting capabilities.

What You’ll Do

• Monitor plant systems, analyze performance, and initiate improvements to support safety, productivity, and cost objectives.
• Study site conditions and gather data necessary for capital and continuous improvement projects.
• Perform custom PLC and drive programming for Allen Bradley, SAF, and Rexroth components.
• Address mill hazards, electrical issues, and programming concerns to maintain safe operations.
• Specify and integrate control devices including PLCs, sensors, transmitters, relays, VFDs, and operator interface devices.
• Prepare bills of material, purchase requisitions, as-built drawings, and project specifications for approval.
• Lead or assist employees and contractors during construction, verification, and start-up activities.
• Review project proposals, RFQs, and supplier bids and provide recommendations to leadership.
• Collaborate with maintenance and operations teams to troubleshoot and resolve equipment issues.
• Maintain, monitor, and improve plant-wide PLCs, drives, and production control equipment.
• Manage records of system software changes and communicate updates to affected employees.
• Support shift work requirements as needed.
• Promote health and safety work practices in accordance with regulatory agencies and company policy.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Who You Are

• Minimum of 5 years of full-time experience in electrical controls or industrial automation.
• Strong leadership, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong working knowledge of ESA Code.
• Proficient in AutoCAD with the ability to create and modify drawings and interpret prints.
• Strong computer skills.
• Advanced PLC programming ability (Allen Bradley) and HMI experience (PanelView/Wonderware).
• Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills.
• Regular, full-time, predictable onsite attendance required.

Physical Abilities

• Ability to work in an industrial manufacturing environment.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and access equipment throughout the facility.
• Ability to lift tools and components as required for electrical and control system maintenance.

What You’ll Get

Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental benefits. In addition, we offer:

• Competitive Compensation
• Bonus Plan & Profit-Sharing Opportunities
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Comprehensive Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Paid Vacation & Holidays
• Employee Loyalty Awards

You should be proficient in:

• PLC Troubleshooting Skills
• PLC Programming Experience
• Electrical / Electronic Systems
• Industrial Electrical Experience