Controls Engineer Power Generation

HIKINEX; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

HIKINEX seeks a skilled Controls Engineer based in Houston, Texas, to enhance power generation and industrial automation systems. The role involves engineering, programming, and troubleshooting generator control systems, with collaboration across engineering and field teams to ensure custom solutions meet client needs.

Ideal candidates have a Bachelor's degree and at least 5 years of experience in power generation systems or industrial controls, with a strong background in PLC programming and electrical troubleshooting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of experience with power generation or industrial controls.
• Strong understanding of electrical systems and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Review project specs and align on technical deliverables.
• Assist with programming and troubleshooting generator control systems.
• Provide remote and onsite support to customers.

Skills

Electrical Engineering

Power Generation Systems

PLC Programming

Troubleshooting

Customer Support

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Generator Control Platforms

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a Controls Engineer with experience in power generation and industrial automation systems to support engineering, programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting activities for generator and electrical control systems. This role will work closely with engineering, manufacturing, and field teams to develop and support custom power generation solutions for industrial applications. The position includes both office‑based engineering responsibilities and occasional field service support at customer locations.

Key Responsibilities

• Review project requirements, technical scopes, and customer specifications to support successful execution of power generation projects.
• Participate in internal and customer project kickoff discussions to align on technical deliverables and schedules.
• Support development and review of electrical drawings, control panel layouts, junction box designs, and related documentation.
• Assist with control system programming, configuration, and troubleshooting for generator and automation systems.
• Work with PLCs, HMIs, generator controllers, relays, and synchronization systems for industrial power applications.
• Support fabrication teams by releasing bills of materials and addressing technical questions during manufacturing.
• Assist with commissioning, startup, testing, and operational support for generator packages and electrical systems in the field.
• Perform troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, and corrective actions on power generation equipment and controls.
• Support installation and testing of generator control panels, transfer switches, load banks, and related equipment.
• Provide remote and onsite technical support to customers and field personnel as needed.
• Conduct factory testing and validation of control systems before shipment to customer locations.
• Verify electrical system performance through testing, measurements, and diagnostics on energized equipment when required.
• Ensure customers receive complete technical turnover packages including drawings, manuals, and operational documentation.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives related to automation tools and controls development.
• Maintain strong customer relationships while supporting safe work practices and company operational standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, or related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of experience supporting power generation systems, industrial controls, or medium‑voltage electrical systems.
• Strong understanding of electrical equipment including switchgear, MCCs, VFDs, motors, and generator controls.
• Experience with PLC and HMI programming, troubleshooting, and commissioning.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, single‑line diagrams, and P&IDs.
• Familiarity with protective relays, synchronization systems, and generator automation platforms.
• Knowledge of NEC standards and industrial electrical practices.
• Experience with generator control platforms, engine management systems, or industrial automation software is highly preferred.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical problem‑solving skills.
• Comfortable supporting both office engineering activities and field commissioning assignments.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and technical documentation tools.
• Excellent communication and customer‑facing skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross‑functional teams.

Travel & Work Environment

• Travel may be required for commissioning, startup, and customer support activities.
• Some assignments may require extended field support for several weeks at a time.
• Occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary depending on project schedules and field requirements.
• Fast‑paced engineering environment with time‑sensitive project deliverables.