Graduate Controls Software Engineer

Smardt Chillers; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Smardt Chillers is seeking a Graduate Controls Software Engineer based in Bayswater North, Victoria. You will contribute to PLC and HMI software development for Smardt's industrial chiller systems, working with experienced Controls Engineers and building hands-on automation experience.

The role focuses on learning PLC programming, industrial communications, HVAC controls, troubleshooting and commissioning, with no prior HVAC/PLC experience required. A curious, capable learner is ideal.

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering or a related engineering discipline, recently completed or nearing completion.
• Foundational understanding of control systems and structured software development principles.
• Interest in automation, industrial controls and software engineering.

Responsibilities

• Learn to develop and test PLC control logic using Structured Text and Function Block Diagram per IEC 61131-3 with guidance from experienced Controls Engineers.
• Collaborate with senior engineers to understand, maintain and improve Smardt's PLC and HMI software codebase.
• Support factory personnel and field technicians with troubleshooting, investigation and testing of new software features.
• Assist with FAT and SAT activities and contribute to software documentation and version control.

Skills

Python

Java

C#

C++

Programming fundamentals

Analytical thinking

Education

Mechatronics or Electrical Engineering degree

Tools

Git

Siemens PLC

Rockwell Automation

TwinCAT/CODESYS

Job description

As a global pioneer in oil-free centrifugal chiller technology with an expanding portfolio of thermal management solutions, Smardt is dedicated to delivering high-efficiency and energy-saving systems for industries, real estate developments, health care and educational centers worldwide. We operate manufacturing facilities in the US, Canada, Germany, China, and Australia, with a team of over 900 employees. With a focus on reliability, performance, and environmental stewardship, Smardt continues to redefine industry standards through advanced engineering and a commitment to a more sustainable future.

The Graduate Controls Software Engineer is an early-career engineering role focused on the development, testing and support of PLC control software and HMI applications for Smardt's industrial chiller systems deployed globally.

Based in Bayswater North, Victoria, this is an opportunity for a recent or upcoming graduate in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering or a related discipline to build hands-on experience in industrial automation and controls. You will work alongside experienced Controls Engineers who will support your development across PLC programming, industrial communications, HVAC controls, troubleshooting and commissioning.

Prior HVAC, PLC or HMI experience is not required. We are looking for someone curious, technically capable and eager to learn.

What You\'ll Do

• Learn to develop and test PLC control logic using Structured Text and Function Block Diagram in accordance with IEC 61131-3, with guidance from experienced Controls Engineers.
• Work with senior engineers to understand, maintain and improve Smardt\'s existing PLC and HMI software codebase.
• Support factory personnel and field technicians with technical troubleshooting, issue investigation and testing of new software features.
• Assist with Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) activities.
• Contribute to structured software documentation, version control and good development practices.
• Collaborate with Controls, Engineering and other technical teams on product development and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Develop your knowledge of industrial communications, HVAC controls, automation and real-world equipment commissioning.

What You\'ll Bring

Experience: This is a graduate-level opportunity suitable for candidates completing or recently completing their tertiary studies. Knowledge of at least one general-purpose programming language such as Python, Java, C# or C++.

Education/Certifications: Tertiary qualification in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering or a related engineering discipline, either recently completed or nearing completion. Foundational understanding of control systems and structured software development principles. A strong interest in building a career in automation, industrial controls and software engineering.

Technical Skills

• Understanding of good programming practices and an interest in writing clean, structured and maintainable code.
• Knowledge of version control practices and tools such as Git.
• Exposure to PLC programming using Structured Text or Function Block Diagram is advantageous.
• Exposure to control platforms such as Siemens, Rockwell, Schneider, Beckhoff TwinCAT or CODESYS would be advantageous.
• Familiarity with industrial communication technologies such as Modbus, CAN or RS-485 would be an asset.
• Exposure to IoT/IIoT technologies or CI/CD development practices would be an asset.

Core Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Curious and proactive, with the confidence to investigate unfamiliar technical problems.
• Strong learning agility and willingness to develop new technical skills.
• Collaborative mindset and willingness to learn from experienced engineers.
• Attention to detail and a structured approach to technical work.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a global engineering team.
• Genuine interest in seeing software translate into measurable, real-world machine performance.

Applicants must hold valid Australian working rights that allow them to work the hours and duration required for this position

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