Control Systems Engineer

Description

Work with AC and DC drives combined with motors, and/or PLC/HMI Automation Systems, potentially including scripting, other program platforms, databases, etc. Assist more senior Engineers and Managers in the design, assembly, configuration, testing, and commissioning of drives and drive systems and/or automation systems. Industry segments will focus on metals, mining, plastics, utilities, manufacturing, plus other industries as economics drive business opportunities.
Essential Functions:
Engineer
o Build technical competencies by following an intentional training plan which will include technical sessions and shadowing of other staff on the following activities: sales, proposals, design, fabrication, assembly, testing, commissioning, customer service, plus other facets as selected by Manager.
Project types will range from: repeating previously completed projects and adapting as needed to specific customer application; engineering of systems for updating, modification, and/or replacement; engineering only for design specifications and services; and/or all new sub-systems and complete systems.
o Project activities may include but are not limited to develop specifications for project implementation; coordinate deliveries, deadlines, etc.; oversee panel assembly and testing with the Custom Control Shop; provide and/or direct purchasing of project materials and services; and installation oversight and commissioning of final systems.
o Assist in development and implementation of AC and DC drive systems and/or PLC/HMI automation systems executing job/project tasks as directed by more senior staff and/or Manager.
o Drives: Be proficient in AC and DC machinery, plus basics of respective AC and DC drives including brand specific drive setup and correlation of functions across brands. Typical process applications may include:
o Simple speed controlled "drive in a box" units.
o Pump and fan control (non-linear, quadratic processes).
o Speed controlled, load sharing drives.
o Torque controlled, speed limited drives.
o Drive PID operation for pressure, flow, temperature, etc. control.
o Hoist controls.
o Winders and tension controls.
o Discrete/terminal control or communication bus control.
o Other processes as needed and required for project execution.
o And/or combinations of the above.
Automations: Proficient in PLC and their programming languages (Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Function Block Diagram) and experience with HMI Systems (Allen-Bradley Panel/View, Siemens Comfort Panels and Unified Panels), including brand specific setup and correlation of functions across brands. Typical process applications may include:
o Simple sequential controls, advancing to more complex applications - enable and start logic, sequences, interlocks, fault actions.
o Analog operations with simple PID loop operations.
o Analog process controls including temperature, pressure, flow, weight, speed, etc.
o Adapt and mix communications protocols with appropriate hardware and software to accomplish project objectives, when necessary.
o Operator (HMI) Interfaces - graphical and textual indications plus input methods for operator control.
o Diagnostic logic and respective HMI indications, alarms.
o Simple scripting needed for basic functions.
o Basic drive system supervision.
o Other processes as needed and required for project execution.
o Network and higher level interfaces.

Requirements

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Engineering Technology or an equivalent combination of education and/or direct applicable experience.

Experience:

o 5-7 years of Control System Engineering experience.
o Experience involving AC or DC drives, PLC's, and/or HMI platforms.
o Experience with Siemens S7 family (S7-1500, S7-1200, etc.) and Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, CompactLogix, and MicroLogix PLCs.
o Work experience involving PLC, PC, and other programming languages.
o Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols including Modbus TCP/RTU, EtherNet/IP, Profibus, Profinet
o SCADA proficiency (preferred) on Wonderware, Ignition.
o Experience with control loop design and PID loop tuning.
o Knowledge of Electrical design standards such as UL and NFPA.
o Work experience involving power electronics and rotating machinery.
o Mining, metals, manufacturing, utilities, mobile, equipment or other industries experience is a plus.
Other:
o Good written and verbal communication skills.
o Good interpersonal skills.
o Strong critical thinking and troubleshooting skills.
o Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
o Good time management skills with the ability to multitask while coordinating multiple priorities.
o Strong knowledge of personal computers including Microsoft Office software.
o Ability to promote a positive company image to customers at all times.
o Ability to read, write, and comprehend complex written and verbal instructions.
o Ability to understand, perform, and retain various job-related training, operational, and safety procedures.
o Ability to exercise initiative, judgment, and decision making related to non-routine duties.
o Overnight travel required.

---