Controls Engineer II

3MD Inc.; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

3MD Inc. in Washington, DC, is seeking a Controls Engineer II to design and program PLC/HMI/SCADA changes for small to mid-sized automation projects.

You will troubleshoot complex equipment issues, update documentation, and support commissioning and system updates while ensuring safety and cybersecurity standards. The role emphasizes mentoring other engineers and technicians, collaborating across operations and engineering teams, and working with machine vision as part of the business.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree and 3-5 years of experience in controls.
• Proficiency in PLC/HMI programming (Rockwell, Siemens or similar).
• Experience with VFDs, servo systems, industrial Ethernet, instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and implement PLC/HMI/SCADA changes for small-mid projects.
• Troubleshoot automation and instrumentation issues and perform root-cause analysis.
• Develop and update control documentation and support commissioning and FAT/SAT.

Skills

PLC & HMI programming

Rockwell/Siemens

Troubleshooting

Documentation

Electrical panel builds

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Tools

SCADA systems

Rockwell/Siemens software

Industrial Ethernet

Job description

Benefits

:U.S.-based employees have access to medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan and company contribution, short-term and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, and wellbeing benefits, among others. U.S.-based employees also receive, per calendar year, up to 6 scheduled paid holidays. Additionally, eligible hourly/non-exempt and exempt employees accrue up to 112 hours of PTO based on years of service and may annually take up to 8 hours of paid volunteer time. Additional paid sick leave is also provided if required by state or local law.

Summary of Position

The Controls Engineer II performs design and programming work on control systems, including PLC logic, HMI screens, instrumentation, and networked devices. This role is responsible for executing small to mid-sized automation projects, troubleshooting complex equipment issues, updating documentation, and supporting system updates. Provides technical guidance to other engineers to improve machine performance, reliability, and compliance. Machine Vision and Identification are also an essential part of the company’s business and will also be a part of this role.

Essential Functions

• Independently design, program, and implement PLC/HMI, SCADA changes for small to mid-sized projects
• Conduct troubleshooting and root-cause analysis of automation and instrumentation issues
• Develop and update controls documentation, including schematics and functional specifications
• Support commissioning, FAT/SAT, and integration of new or upgraded equipment
• Ability to perform electrical panel builds and field wiring
• Assist in defining project requirements, timelines, and technical scope
• Provide guidance and informal mentoring to other Engineers and Technicians
• Ensure compliance with safety, electrical, and cybersecurity standards

Competencies

• 1. Ensures Accountability
• 2. Tech Savvy
• 3. Communicates Effectively
• 4. Values Differences
• 5. Customer Focus
• 6. Resourcefulness
• 7. Drives Results
• 8. Plans and Prioritizes
• 9. Decision Quality
• 10. Self-Development

Work Environment

This position is based in a professional office setting and regularly utilizes workplace technology, including computers, smartphones, multifunction printers, cloud-based filing systems, and collaboration tools.

Physical Demands

This role requires physical capabilities that support the successful execution of key responsibilities. The employee regularly engages in verbal and written communication with colleagues and clients to address project-related inquiries and must be able to convey accurate information clearly and efficiently. The position involves remaining seated at a workstation for approximately 75% of the time, with occasional movement throughout the office to access equipment, supplies, and shared resources. Daily tasks include consistent use of computers and standard office technology such as keyboards, printers, and multifunction devices. The role also involves transporting equipment boxes weighing up to 25 pounds within the building and to other offsite locations as needed for project support.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor’s Degree3-5 years of experience

Qualifications

• Proficiency in PLC and HMI programming (Rockwell, Siemens, or similar)
• Ability to design and modify control logic, I/O layouts, and equipment sequences
• Ability to adapt to new technologies and programming environments
• Experience with VFDs, servo systems, industrial Ethernet, and instrumentation
• Familiarity with SCADA systems and industrial communication protocols
• Solid troubleshooting skills
• Effective communication with operations, engineering team and customer contacts
• Ability to manage small and mid-sized projects with limited supervision
• Strong documentation practices and attention to detail

AAP/EEO Statement

:3MD Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on gender, sex, age, race and color, religion, marital status, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status or any other category that is protected by applicable law.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.