Automation & Controls Engineer

Cogent Industrial Technologies; Richmond; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Cogent Industrial Technologies is seeking an Automation & Controls Engineer to design automation solutions for industrial projects. The role involves PLC programming, HMI configuration, and requires strong communication skills. Ideal candidates have at least 2 years of relevant experience and a degree in electrical engineering. Join a company committed to sustainability and innovation in industrial automation.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of controls and automation experience in industrial settings.
• Familiarity in network architecture, PLC/HMI programming, electrical schematics.

Responsibilities

• Designing, developing, and commissioning control systems for industrial projects globally.
• Preparing engineering scopes and control system specifications.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Creativity

Adaptability

Education

Diploma or degree in electrical engineering

Tools

PLC programming

HMI configuration

Job description

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Overview
Are you looking to work for an award-winning industrial automation solutions provider that delivers complex projects designed to improve data capture, digital ecosystems, and integrated solutions for industrial customers seeking increased visibility into their operations? If this sounds like you, Cogent Industrial Technologies has an immediate opening for an Automation & Controls Engineer / Technologist.

Founded in 2005 and acquired by Kadant Inc. in 2020, Cogent has a global client base engaged in industrial manufacturing. We are positioned to capitalize on the growing trend of Industry 4.0 technologies such as IoT, IIoT, CPS, smart manufacturing, cloud computing, cognitive computing, and AI.

Cogent’s technologies are primarily utilized by companies producing wood products, utilities, and facilities. The company has an established reputation in industrial technology solutions and aims to double its staff from 20 employees within the next two years.

Why work at Cogent Industrial Technologies?
Cogent is committed to sustainability through a Triple Bottom Line approach—focusing on economic, environmental, and social responsibility, striving to build a culture rooted in integrity, transparency, community, and environmental sustainability.

Responsibilities

The Role: Based in Richmond, BC, the Automation & Controls Engineer will design automation solutions for brownfield and greenfield projects, working directly with clients. Responsibilities include preparing engineering scopes, control system specifications, system architecture drawings, PLC programming, HMI configuration, and network setup.

Ideal candidates will have at least 2 years of experience with PLC/HMI and control network design, preferably from OEMs, system integrators, or engineering firms, and possess strong communication skills and technical knowledge.

Key success factors include understanding Cogent’s culture, building relationships, delivering high-quality work, collaborating effectively, and staying current with technology trends.

Responsibilities include:

• Designing, developing, and commissioning control systems for industrial projects globally.
• Developing control system specifications, system architecture, PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens), HMI configuration (Rockwell, Wonderware, Ignition).
• Participating in hazard and risk analysis, safety system design, and testing procedures.
• Communicating effectively with stakeholders and supporting project execution.

Travel: The role requires travel of 5-25% to project sites and customer meetings, with support provided for remote work.

Qualifications: A diploma or degree in electrical engineering or related field, with relevant certifications preferred. Minimum 2 years of controls and automation experience in industrial settings, with familiarity in network architecture, PLC/HMI programming, electrical schematics, and safety standards.

Personal Characteristics: Commitment to safety, excellent communication, motivation, teamwork, creativity, and adaptability. Ability to travel outside Canada and work within Canada.