Controls Engineer at Smiths Group — Arden, NC

JOB SUMMARY: The Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, development, programming, commissioning, and support of industrial control systems and control panels used in manufacturing, process, and automation environments. This role will lead the implementation of PLC, HMI, SCADA, VFD, and industrial networking solutions utilizing Siemens, Emerson, ABB, and Allen-Bradley (et al) platforms. The engineer will work closely with customers, sales, engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to deliver reliable, safe, and compliant automation solutions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Control Panel Design

• Design industrial control panels in accordance with UL 508A, UL698A, NEC and applicable customer standards.
• Create and maintain panel layouts, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and bill of materials using Solidworks, Draftsight, EPLAN, ERP or similar software.
• Specify and select components including:
• PLCs
• HMIs
• Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
• Motor starters
• Safety relays
• I/O devices
• Industrial networking equipment

PLC & HMI Programming

• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs utilizing:
• Siemens S7-1200, S7-1500, ET200 platforms (TIA Portal)
• Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, CompactLogix, MicroLogix (Studio 5000 / RSLogix)
• Emerson PACSystems and process automation platforms
• ABB AC500 and distributed control technologies
• Promote safety, continuous improvement, and LEAN problem-solving practices.
• Develop HMI and SCADA applications using:
• Siemens WinCC
• Rockwell FactoryTalk View
• Emerson Operator Interface Solutions
• ABB Automation Builder and visualization platforms
• Implement process control strategies including PID loops, sequencing, interlocks, alarming, and safety functions.

Industrial Networking and Integration

• Configure and troubleshoot industrial communication networks including:
• Ethernet/IP
• Profinet
• Modbus TCP/IP
• Modbus RTU
• Profibus
• OPC UA
• Integrate PLCs with:
• SCADA systems
• MES systems
• Third-party automation equipment

Testing and Commissioning

• Perform Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
• Lead startup and commissioning activities at customer facilities.
• Troubleshoot electrical and automation systems during installation and production startup.
• Validate system performance against customer specifications and design requirements.
• Develop test procedures and commissioning documentation.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related engineering discipline.
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant industry experience may be considered
• 3+ years of experience in industrial automation or controls engineering
• Hands-on programming and troubleshooting multiple platforms of PLCs.
• HMI/SCADA Development
• CAD experience, such as AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN.
• Troubleshooting of electrical and automation systems.
• Electrical safety and lockout/tagout procedures

PREFFERED QUALIFICATIONS:

UL 508A control panel design experience