Controls Engineer |Hands-on Automation |On-site Stability

Company Description

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Job Description

A leading engineering group is seeking a Controls Engineer to design, develop, and implement complex control systems for large-scale automation projects. This role spans the full lifecycle - from blank-sheet system design to programming, testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting. You'll work across entertainment, manufacturing, and advanced automation environments, often serving as the technical lead on high-visibility projects.

This is a role for someone who thrives in deep technical work, loves solving complex control challenges, and enjoys seeing their systems come to life in the real world.

What You'll Do

• Lead electrical and controls engineering for large-scale automation projects.
• Design control systems from scratch (hardware, software, networks).
• Create electrical panel designs, power calculations, and component selections.
• Perform risk assessments, hazard analyses, and safety-critical design work.
• Develop PLC/DCS logic using ladder logic, structured text, and other languages.
• Produce detailed documentation: schematics, network layouts, test plans, descriptions of operation, and maintenance plans.
• Conduct system integration with other engineering disciplines.
• Optimize panel locations and system layouts to reduce voltage drop and improve efficiency.
• Manage vendor scope and ensure compliance with codes, standards, and client requirements.
• Troubleshoot control systems using trending, test logic, and root-cause analysis.
• Implement "smart diagnostics" to prevent cascading faults.
• Support installation, commissioning, startup, and debugging.
• Act as technical lead and mentor junior engineers/technicians.
• Work on automation projects across entertainment, manufacturing, and ride-system environments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (or directly related discipline).
• 5+ years of experience covering most responsibilities listed above.
• Strong experience with AutoCAD or similar drafting tools.
• Proficiency with PLC/DCS programming (ladder logic required; structured text required; C++/VB preferred).
• Experience with major industrial platforms (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.).
• Understanding of distributed I/O, ethernet-based systems, and network delays.
• Ability to perform system design calculations (short circuit, harmonics, load flow, grounding, relay design, etc.).
• Experience with safety system implementation (SIL/PL preferred).
• Strong communication skills and ability to work in multi-discipline engineering teams.
• Ability to travel up to 30% and work off-shifts during commissioning when needed.
• Comfortable working in office, industrial, and construction environments.

Additional Information

Physical Requirements

• Ability to climb, lift, push, pull, mount/dismount equipment.
• Clear speech, hearing, color perception, and dexterity for hands-on work.
• Frequent computer use and onsite presence.