Controls Engineer III

Controls Engineer III

$80k - $105k. Up to ≈60% Travel

Position Overview

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Controls Engineer III to join a dynamic engineering team focused on material handling, automation, and sortation systems. The CE3 is a mid-to-senior level controls engineer responsible for hands-on PLC programming, on-site commissioning, and the technical execution of complex automation projects in distribution and parcel-sortation environments.

This role is ideal for an experienced controls engineering professional who is ready to take on greater project ownership, technical responsibility, and leadership — and who thrives in a fast-paced, field-oriented environment where no two project sites are exactly alike.

Key Responsibilities

Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs for automated material handling and sortation systems

Execute controls engineering tasks across the full project lifecycle, from initial design through field commissioning and system startup

Collaborate with project leads and Controls Project Engineers on technical deliverables and project execution strategies

Perform on-site commissioning, testing, debugging, and system startup activities in live operational environments

Interpret and work with electrical schematics, control panel drawings, and I/O documentation

Coordinate with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to ensure integrated system performance and cohesive project delivery

Support client interactions on-site during installation and startup phases with professionalism and technical clarity

Identify and resolve controls-related issues during project execution, applying structured troubleshooting methodologies

Mentor and support junior controls engineers as needed, contributing to a culture of knowledge-sharing and technical development

Required Skills & Qualifications

Solid, hands-on experience in controls engineering within automation, material handling, conveyor, sortation, or distribution environments

Proficiency in PLC programming; Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation Studio 5000 experience strongly preferred

Experience with HMI development and system integration

Ability to read, interpret, and work from electrical schematics and control system documentation

Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in live, time-sensitive commissioning environments

Ability to work independently on-site and communicate clearly and effectively with cross-functional project teams

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a closely related field preferred; equivalent professional experience will be considered

Preferred Background

3–7 years of controls engineering experience in material handling, sortation, fulfillment, or intralogistics automation

Demonstrated experience with full-cycle project commissioning in distribution center (DC) or parcel-sortation environments

Familiarity with standard automated material handling equipment, including conveyors, sorters, scanners, and diverters