Controls Hardware Design Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

ATC Automation is seeking a Controls Hardware Design Engineer to support the design and delivery of engineered-to-order automation equipment. ATC specializes in the design and build of custom automated assembly and test systems for a wide range of industries, including transportation, life sciences, consumer products, and general industry.

In this role, you will develop detailed electrical and pneumatic designs based on automation requirements, customer specifications, and applicable industry standards. You will be part of a collaborative, fast-paced engineering environment focused on delivering high-quality automation solutions on schedule and within budget while maintaining strong customer satisfaction.

This is a full-time, direct-hire position based at ATC Automation's headquarters in Cookeville, TN. The role reports to the Director of the Life Science Division and works closely with Business Unit Managers and cross-functional engineering teams to support successful project execution.

Meet ATC Automation

Since 1977, ATC Automation has been a trusted leader in designing and building custom automation solutions. From concept to commissioning, we partner with some of the world's top brands to deliver precision-engineered machinery that improves efficiency, reliability, and performance. Our expertise spans industries that shape the way we live and move-Life Sciences, Transportation, Consumer Products, and General Industry.

How You'll Contribute

• Develop complete electrical design packages, including detailed electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic schematics, cable routing diagrams, panel layouts, bills of materials, and material requisitions.
• Perform engineering calculations, including full-load amperage, short-circuit current ratings, and panel temperature analysis.
• Implement automation tools, macros, scripting, and process improvements to enhance design efficiency and consistency.
• Drive standardization efforts for electrical schematics and controls hardware design across the division.
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and build teams to ensure alignment throughout project execution.
• Partner with vendors and suppliers to obtain technical documentation, component recommendations, and application support.
• Create, interpret, and troubleshoot electrical and pneumatic schematics using AutoCAD Electrical and related design tools.
• Apply controls engineering knowledge and strong computer skills to support machine and system design.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams, customers, and external stakeholders across multiple disciplines.
• Apply electrical and controls engineering principles to support safe, reliable, and high-performing automation systems.
• Support Applications Engineering and quoting activities with scope definition and technical input as needed.
• Minimal travel is required based on projects and customer needs.

Ideal Technical Experience

• Strong knowledge of applicable electrical standards, including NFPA 70 (NEC), NFPA 79, UL 508A, IEC 60204-1, and the EU Machinery Directive (CE).
• Familiarity with machine safety standards, including ISO 13849 for Safety-Related Parts of Control Systems.
• Experience with electrical design software such as AutoCAD Electrical, ePLAN, or SolidWorks Electrical.
• Experience designing and sizing pneumatic systems, including valves, filters, regulators, and surge tanks.
• Working knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, and robotics sufficient to support hardware design decisions.
• Experience sizing industrial power systems (600V or less), including transformers, disconnects, and overcurrent protection.
• Hands-on experience working within custom automation or machine-building environments.
• Knowledge of industrial control power systems, including 24VDC, Class 2 circuits, and electronic circuit protection.
• Familiarity with major automation suppliers, including Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Keyence, IFM, SMC, and Festo.
• Experience integrating third-party equipment, including vision systems, servo/motion control systems, and robotics into machine designs.

Basic Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering.
• 4+ years of relevant professional experience in controls hardware design, automation engineering, or related fields.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail in a fast-paced engineering environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Medical, dental, vision, health savings account (HSA), paid time off, and 401(k).
• Opportunities for professional development, technical growth, and career advancement.
• A collaborative and innovative culture focused on solving complex automation challenges for world-class customers.

Physical Demands

• Stand, walk, push, pull, reach overhead, and bend to floor.
• Exert 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally.
• Exert 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently.
• Exert up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
• VISUAL ACUITY: Near acuity with or without accommodation.
• HEARING Ability: Ability to monitor machine sounds to identify and diagnose.

Disclaimer:

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position. This job description is subject to change but will remain in effect until superseded or canceled in writing by Human Resources.

ATC Automation is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

ATC Automation is the Automation segment of TASI Group. The TASI Group of Companies is comprised of four technologically advanced Strategic Business Segments commonly linked by a disciplined focus on Product Integrity, Package Integrity, and Automation. Each TASI company delivers world-class products and services, focusing on our global customer needs in diverse market segments. TASI has served several thousand global customers over the years and enjoys a very high rate of repeat customers, many of which are Blue Chip Global Companies. Major Markets include: Automotive, Medical Devices, Life Science, Pharmaceutical, Packaging, Oil & Gas, Food & Beverage, Consumer Goods and General Industrial Equipment.