Electrical Controls Engineer

Electrical Controls Engineer

An engineering organization is seeking a Controls Engineer responsible for electrical and automation engineering on large-scale projects. This role involves designing control systems from concept through implementation, including hardware, software, and network architecture. Responsibilities include electrical panel design, power calculations, risk assessments, component selection, system programming, and installation/commissioning support.

Design electrical and control systems from concept based on project requirements.

Develop control system architecture including hardware, software, and network components.

Perform electrical panel design, power distribution calculations, and system layout optimization.

Create designs using drafting software (AutoCAD preferred).

Coordinate system integration with multiple engineering disciplines.

Optimize facility layouts and equipment placement to improve efficiency and reduce voltage drop.

Manage vendor deliverables to ensure compliance with safety, functional, and contractual requirements.

Ensure designs comply with applicable codes, standards, and client specifications.

Conduct hazard analysis and develop risk mitigation strategies.

Design safety-critical systems with redundancy for reliability and fault tolerance.

Develop automation solutions involving complex motion control and integrated systems.

Produce technical documentation including system descriptions, design specifications, panel drawings, network layouts, and testing procedures.

Perform engineering calculations and analysis such as:

Short circuit protection

Harmonics and noise reduction

Load flow and power consumption

Protective relay and circuit design

Ground fault monitoring

Safety system implementation (SIL/PL knowledge preferred)

Design and implement PLC/DCS control logic to meet process requirements.

Develop software and system documentation including design plans, operation descriptions, and test procedures.

Program and troubleshoot control systems using:

Ladder Logic (required)

Structured Text (required)

C++ (preferred)

Visual Basic (preferred)

Perform processor loading, scan time, and network performance analysis.

Develop efficient, maintainable control code with strong diagnostic capabilities.

Troubleshoot control system issues and perform root cause analysis.

Support system start-up, commissioning, and debugging activities.

Lead technical project activities and provide guidance to engineers, technicians, and contractors.

Work on automation and control integration projects across industrial and manufacturing environments.

Support installation activities, including occasional off-shift work as needed.

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field with relevant experience.

5+ years of experience in electrical or controls engineering.

Experience with system integration, safety engineering, instrumentation, and automation programming preferred.

Familiarity with industry standards, contract documents, and technical specifications.

Experience with major industrial automation platforms (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens).

Experience with distributed remote I/O and industrial networks preferred.

Experience collecting field data and performing system design functions.

Strong technical problem solving and analytical skills

Effective written and verbal communication

Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams

Project planning and prioritization

Customer-focused approach

Technical documentation and reporting

Work performed in office, industrial, and construction environments.

Frequent computer use and field interaction.

Ability to travel periodically for project support.

Physical activities may include climbing equipment, lifting, and field inspections.