Controls Engineer

Watershed Foods LLC; Gridley (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401K with company match

Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Disability

Paid holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Uniform and boots

Volunteer days

Job summary

Watershed Foods LLC is seeking a skilled Controls Engineer to design, develop, and maintain control systems across manufacturing processes. You will optimize automation, electrical systems, and software integration to improve reliability and safety.

The role involves designing control panels, integrating sensors and devices, and ensuring compliance with industry standards while collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver reliable solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of controls engineering experience in manufacturing or industrial environments.
• Strong knowledge of PLC programming and HMI/SCADA systems.
• Familiarity with electrical schematics, control panels, and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop PLCs, HMIs, and other control systems per project specs.
• Create electrical/control system schematics, wiring diagrams, and layouts.
• Integrate sensors, actuators, and devices into control systems.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot existing control systems and perform upgrades.
• Oversee installation, commissioning, and risk assessments for control projects.
• Stay updated on industry trends and support maintenance and operations teams.

Skills

PLC programming

PID control

HMI software

Ethernet networking

AC/DC drives

VFDs

Control theory

Electrical schematics

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related

Tools

CAD software

HMI/SCADA software

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Controls Engineer to design, develop, and maintain control systems that enhance the functionality, reliability, and safety of our manufacturing or operational processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of automation, electrical systems, and software integration to optimize process performance.

Qualifications

Key Responsibilities

Design And Development

• Develop and program PLCs, HMIs, and other control systems to meet project specifications.
• Create electrical and control system schematics, including wiring diagrams and layouts.
• Design control panels, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

System Integration

• Integrate sensors, actuators, and other devices into control systems.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to integrate controls into larger systems.
• Ensure compatibility and communication between hardware and software components.

Maintenance And Troubleshooting

• Diagnose and resolve issues in existing control systems.
• Perform upgrades or modifications to enhance system performance and reliability.
• Maintain accurate documentation for all control systems, including software and hardware configurations.

Project Management

• Collaborate with project managers to define control system requirements and timelines.
• Oversee the installation and commissioning of new control systems.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure compliance with industry standards and best practices.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities for automation and process optimization.
• Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices.
• Train and support maintenance and operations teams on control system use and troubleshooting.

Skills & Qualifications

• Detailed working knowledge of control theory, PLC programming, PID controllers, HMI software, Ethernet networking, AC/DC drives, up to 480V systems, electro-mechanical systems, and VFDs
• Able to understand control logic for complex plant and production systems
• Familiarity with HMI/SCADA systems and software tools.
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus).
• Competence in CAD software for control system design.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a related field preferred. Equivalent experience HFFS programing or technical equipment management would be considered.
• 5+ years of experience in controls engineering, preferably in a manufacturing or industrial environment.

Benefits

• PPO or HSA medical benefits with Employer Contributions.
• Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Disability insurance.
• 401K with a competitive company match.
• 8 Holidays, Vacation accrual, PTO program, Parental Leave.
• Attendance, Safety, Service Awards.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program.
• Uniform and Boots provision.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Chaplain Program.
• Smart Dollar.
• Company Events and Luncheons.
• Paid Volunteer Days.
• Referral bonuses.