Controls Automation Engineer

Compunnel, Inc.; Lenexa (KS); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Compunnel, Inc. is seeking a Controls Automation Engineer specializing in Rockwell to maintain and optimize PLCs (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, and MicroLogix) and to support production with HMI/SCADA deployments.

You will work with process engineers to implement control strategies, troubleshoot faults, and develop documentation. The role requires hands-on experience in manufacturing and adherence to safety standards, with opportunities for mentoring technicians and occasional site travel.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related field.
• 3–5 years of hands-on experience in industrial controls within manufacturing.
• Proficiency with Rockwell/Allen‑Bradley PLC platforms and Studio 5000/RSLogix 5000.
• Experience with HMI/SCADA configuration (FactoryTalk View, Wonderware or similar).
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, Profibus, Modbus).
• Knowledge of instrumentation, sensors, VFDs, MCCs, and motor control.
• Familiarity with NEC/NFPA 70 and NFPA 79; ability to read electrical schematics.

Responsibilities

• Maintain PLC programs using Rockwell platforms (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, MicroLogix).
• Troubleshoot HMI/SCADA systems (FactoryTalk View, Ignition) for production monitoring.
• Support full lifecycle of automation projects from concept to installation and handover.
• Diagnose and fix control system faults and electrical issues to minimize downtime.
• Create and maintain technical documentation (P&IDs, schematics, control narratives).
• Collaborate with process engineers to optimize throughput, quality and safety.
• Perform routine audits of control systems to identify risks and improvements.
• Provide on-call and on-site support for critical production systems.
• Train maintenance techs and operators on control systems and basic troubleshooting.
• Ensure compliance with NFPA 70, OSHA and internal guidelines.

Skills

Rockwell Automation

Allen‑Bradley PLC

Studio 5000/RSLogix 5000

HMI/SCADA

Industrial Networking

Electrical Schematics

Electrical Safety (NEC/NFPA 70)

Troubleshooting

Documentation

Effective Communication

Education

Bachelor's in Electrical/Controls Engineering

Tools

Studio 5000

RSLogix 5000

FactoryTalk View

Wonderware

EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, Modbus

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Controls Automation Engineering Position - specialty in Rockwell

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain PLC programs primarily using Rockwell Automation (Allen‑Bradley) platforms, including ControlLogix, CompactLogix, and MicroLogix.
• Troubleshoot HMI/SCADA systems (e.g., FactoryTalk View SE/ME, Ignition) to support production monitoring and control.
• Support the full lifecycle of automation projects from concept and requirements definition through installation, startup, and handover to operations.
• Diagnose and resolve control system faults, instrumentation issues, and electrical failures to minimize production downtime.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation including P&IDs, electrical schematics, control narratives, and programming standards.
• Collaborate with process engineers to implement control strategies that optimize throughput, quality, and safety.
• Perform routine audits of control systems to identify risks and recommend preventative maintenance or improvement actions.
• Provide on‑call and on‑site technical support for critical production systems as required.
• Train and mentor maintenance technicians and operators on control system operation and basic troubleshooting.
• Ensure all systems comply with applicable safety standards (NFPA 70, OSHA, ISA/IEC) and internal engineering guidelines.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a closely related field.
• 3–5 years of hands‑on experience in industrial controls and automation engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Rockwell Automation / Allen‑Bradley PLC platforms (ControlLogix, CompactLogix) and Studio 5000 / RSLogix 5000 programming software.
• Experience with HMI and SCADA configuration (FactoryTalk View, Wonderware, or similar).
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols including EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, Profibus, and Modbus.
• Working knowledge of instrumentation, sensors, variable frequency drives (VFDs), servo systems, and motor control centers (MCCs).
• Familiarity with electrical codes (NEC/NFPA 70) and industrial safety standards (NFPA 79, OSHA 29 CFR 1910).
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and mechanical drawings.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a systematic approach to troubleshooting.
• Effective communication and documentation skills with the ability to present technical concepts to non‑technical stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications

• Rockwell Automation Certified Logix Designer (CLD) certification.
• Experience with batch control systems and ISA‑88 batch standards.
• Familiarity with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and integration with ERP platforms (e.g., SAP).
• Knowledge of robot programming and integration (FANUC, ABB, KUKA, or similar).
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Prior experience in process industries such as food & beverage, chemicals, packaging, or life sciences.
• Familiarity with cybersecurity best practices for industrial control systems (ICS).

WORKING CONDITIONS

Regular exposure to a manufacturing plant environment including noise, machinery, and industrial chemicals.

Ability to stand, walk, and work at elevated heights on occasion.

Availability for on‑call support and occasional off‑shift or weekend work during critical projects or unplanned downtime.

Some travel may be required for vendor visits, training, or project support at other sites (?10%).