Controls Engineer

Engtal; Greensboro (NC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology solutions company in North Carolina is seeking a Controls Engineer to join their product development team. In this role, you will be involved in the complete development process from design to production, ensuring compliance with standards. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and over 4 years of experience in industrial controls and automation, especially with PLC programming and VFD systems. Offering full-time employment with significant responsibility in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in industrial controls and automation.
• Strong background in PLC architecture and programming (Siemens preferred).
• Hands-on experience with VFDs and motion control systems.
• Knowledge of closed-loop control and PID principles.

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, and execute control systems development for machinery.
• Conduct proof-of-concept tests; analyze results and recommend improvements.
• Develop electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Integrate VFDs, servo controllers, and motion systems.

Skills

Industrial controls and automation

PLC programming

VFDs and motion control

Digital and analog instrumentation

Communication protocols

Excellent communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Overview

Our client is seeking a Controls Engineer to join their product development team. In this role, you’ll be involved in the complete development process—from design and prototyping to testing and production—collaborating with cross-functional teams. This opportunity offers broad responsibility within a collaborative, small-company setting where your contributions are meaningful and highly visible.

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, and execute control systems development (hardware and software) for new and existing machinery.
• Conduct proof-of-concept and proof-of-technology tests; analyze results, prepare reports, and recommend improvements.
• Develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts, including bills of materials and detail drawings, ensuring compliance with standards and regulations.
• Work with multidisciplinary teams to resolve design and process challenges.
• Integrate VFDs, servo controllers, and motion systems for precise control applications.
• Develop, install, and test PLC and HMI code at the production facility prior to shipment.
• Prepare and maintain documentation and procedures as needed.
• Participate in R&D projects.
• Collaborate with suppliers to ensure correct component selection and compatibility.
• Provide knowledge transfer and support to other engineers and field service personnel.
• Assist with machine installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and customer training as required.
• Stay current on relevant safety codes and best practices.
• Complete all tasks in a professional, timely manner while maintaining safety standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience.
• 4+ years of experience in industrial controls and automation.
• Strong background in PLC architecture and programming (Siemens preferred).
• Hands-on experience with VFDs and motion control systems.
• Knowledge of digital and analog instrumentation (sensors, encoders, load cells, etc.).
• Understanding of closed-loop control and PID principles.
• Experience developing HMIs with intuitive user interfaces.
• Familiarity with industrial networks and communication protocols.
• Ability to read and interpret pneumatic and hydraulic diagrams.
• Proficiency with CAD software for electrical/control drawings.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Travel occasionally (typically less than 10%).

Seniority level

• Associate

Employment type

• Full-time

Industries

• Industrial Machinery Manufacturing