Controls Engineer

Job Description

Title : Controls Engineer
Location : Germantown, WI
Hire Type : Contract
Compensation : $60/hr
Benefits : As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to receive a Full Employee Benefits Package that includes paid time off, paid holidays, 3 medical plans to choose from, dental & vision plans, 401(k), and an Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP) plan.

Summary:

The Controls Engineer will be responsible for developing, programming, commissioning, troubleshooting, and supporting automated manufacturing systems. Strong experience with Allen-Bradley and Beckhoff PLC platforms is highly valued, with the ability to work across both systems.

Responsibilities:

• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC control programs for automated manufacturing equipment.
• Program and support Allen-Bradley PLCs, including ControlLogix and CompactLogix platforms.
• Develop and troubleshoot Beckhoff PLC applications, utilizing TwinCAT.
• Design, develop, and integrate machine controls, motion systems, robotics, HMIs, and other automation technologies.
• Create and modify electrical control systems, I/O configurations, and machine sequences.
• Perform equipment startup, commissioning, debugging, and validation both in-house and at customer locations as needed.
• Troubleshoot electrical, PLC, HMI, motion, networking, and automation-related issues.
• Work closely with mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and engineering teams to develop reliable automated equipment.
• Interpret electrical schematics, control panel drawings, I/O documentation, and machine specifications.
• Assist with the integration of sensors, servos, VFDs, safety systems, robotics, and other industrial automation components.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including PLC programs, electrical documentation, and operating procedures.
• Provide ongoing support and improvements to existing automated systems.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on machine performance, reliability, safety, and efficiency.
• Assist with customer support and troubleshooting when required.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• 3+ years of controls/automation engineering experience in a manufacturing or machine-building environment.
• Strong Allen-Bradley PLC programming experience.
• Experience programming Beckhoff PLCs using TwinCAT.
• Understanding of industrial communication networks and machine-level controls.
• Experience with HMIs, VFDs, servo systems, and industrial automation.
• Ability to read and understand electrical schematics.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively with mechanical and electrical engineering teams.
• Willingness to participate in equipment commissioning and startup activities.

Preferred Experience:

• ControlLogix / CompactLogix
• Beckhoff TwinCAT 3
• EtherNet/IP and EtherCAT
• Servo and motion control
• HMI development
• Robotics integration
• Machine safety systems
• Electrical panel design
• Industrial networking
• Vision systems
• Experience with automated manufacturing or custom machinery

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Meet Your Recruiter

Steve Stabley
Principal Recruiter

Steve Stabley is a Recruiter at Sterling Engineering with close to 30 years of technical recruiting experience, including more than 23 years with Sterling. Throughout his career, Steve has built deep expertise in the automation and manufacturing industries, helping clients identify and hire highly skilled engineering and technical talent.

Steve has successfully sourced and placed engineers and technicians with many of the leading automation companies throughout the greater Chicagoland area. His industry knowledge, long-standing relationships, and understanding of technical hiring needs allow him to connect qualified candidates with opportunities where they can make an immediate and lasting impact.

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About Germantown, WI

Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore exciting job opportunities in the vibrant area around Germantown, Wisconsin! Nestled in the heart of the state, Germantown offers a charming blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. With easy access to Milwaukee's renowned art galleries, theaters, and professional sports teams, as well as the beauty of nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest, there's no shortage of things to do and see. Whether you're drawn to the area's unique cuisine or its thriving business community, Germantown provides an ideal backdrop for professional growth and personal fulfillment. Don't miss out on the chance to build your career in this dynamic and inviting region!