Control Systems Engineer (Industrial Automation)Position Summary

We are seeking a Control Systems Engineer with a strong foundation in electrical engineering and hands-on experience in industrial automation systems. This role is responsible for the design, programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting of PLC-based control systems, industrial networks, and associated instrumentation across manufacturing, water/wastewater, or process environments.

The ideal candidate combines solid engineering fundamentals with practical field experience in diagnosing real-world issues such as communication faults, drive behavior, and system integration challenges.

Key ResponsibilitiesControl System Design and Implementation

Design and develop control systems using PLC platforms such as:

Rockwell Automation (ControlLogix, CompactLogix)

AutomationDirect Productivity series

Develop I/O layouts, panel designs, and electrical schematics

Size and specify components (power supplies, transformers, breakers, relays, etc.)

Ensure compliance with NEC, UL, and industry standards

Programming and Configuration

Develop PLC programs using:

Ladder Logic

Structured Text

Function Block (e.g., PIDE)

Configure and troubleshoot:

EtherNet/IP communications (explicit/implicit messaging)

Modbus TCP/RTU devices

Integrate third-party devices (VFDs, flow meters, UPS systems, instrumentation)

Configure HMIs and SCADA systems (e.g., Ignition)

Commissioning and Troubleshooting

Diagnose and resolve issues such as:

PLC I/O faults and module dropouts

Industrial network communication errors (e.g., "Invalid Originator to Target")

VFD faults and abnormal output conditions

Power quality and grounding issues

Perform system startup, loop checks, and functional testing

Support field technicians and operators during commissioning

Industrial Networking

Configure and maintain industrial networks including:

Managed switches and routers (e.g., VLANs, NAT, VPNs)

Remote access solutions (OpenVPN, secure tunneling)

Troubleshoot network reliability issues in control environments

SCADA, Data and Reporting

Develop SCADA applications and reporting tools using platforms like:

Inductive Automation Ignition

Create tag structures, expressions, and reporting logic

Implement data logging, alarms, and daily/shift reporting (e.g., flow totals, runtime)

Documentation and Support

Create and maintain:

Control narratives

I/O lists

Network architecture diagrams

As-built documentation

Provide technical support and training to operators and maintenance staff

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in

Electrical Engineering or closely related field

3+ years of experience in industrial automation or controls engineering

Strong understanding of:

AC/DC circuits and control power systems (e.g., 24VDC, 120VAC)

Motor control and VFD operation

Industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus)

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with:

Rockwell Studio 5000 / RSLogix

Ignition SCADA platform

Industrial instrumentation (flow meters, level sensors, pressure transmitters)

Familiarity with:

NEC code for control panels and transformer sizing

Hazardous location classifications (e.g., Class I Div 2)

Experience in water/wastewater, oil and gas, or manufacturing environments

Networking knowledge (routing, NAT, VPN configuration)

Key Skills

Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis

Ability to interpret electrical schematics and PandIDs

Hands-on commissioning experience

Clear technical communication (written and verbal)

Ability to work independently in field environments

Work Environment

Combination of office engineering work and field work

Travel to job sites for commissioning and troubleshooting (as required)

Occasional on-call or off-hours support during startup phases

Example Projects You Might Work On

Troubleshooting EtherNet/IP communication between PLCs and VFDs

Designing a control panel with proper transformer sizing and protection

Diagnosing abnormal VFD output voltages and grounding issues

Implementing Ignition reports for daily flow totals and system performance

Setting up secure remote access to PLC systems via VPN-enabled routers

Logical Control Systems, LLC

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Control Systems Engineer (Industrial Automation)