Controls Engineering Co-Op

Diversified Automation, Inc.; Louisville (KY); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Diversified Automation, Inc. is seeking a Controls and Commissioning Co-op in Louisville, KY. You will assist with electrical controls engineering, PLC programming, testing, and commissioning within conveyor system integrations.

You will gain hands-on experience with PLCs, HMIs, industrial networks, and electrical design while supporting field activities and documentation for customer projects.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field.
• Basic understanding of industrial automation, electrical controls, or PLC programming preferred.
• Familiarity with Rockwell Automation platforms, HMIs, or industrial networks is a bonus.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to travel up to 80-90% during co-op assignments.

Responsibilities

• Review electrical drawings, I/O lists, control narratives, and system documentation.
• Participate in system testing and validation to ensure design compliance.
• Assist with testing and commissioning documentation.
• Support field commissioning and startup activities for projects.
• Aid in troubleshooting PLC programs, HMIs, and industrial networks.

Skills

Active Listening

Troubleshooting

Critical Thinking

Reading Comprehension

Complex Problem Solving

Technical Aptitude

Team Collaboration

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering or Computer Engineering

Tools

Rockwell Automation platforms

HMI systems

Industrial communication networks

Job description

Position Summary

The Controls and Commissioning Co-op is part of a cross-discipline project team, supporting the successful execution of conveyor system integration projects. Under the guidance of experienced controls engineers, the co-op will assist with electrical controls engineering, PLC programming, testing, documentation, and commissioning activities while gaining hands‑on experience in industrial automation and material handling systems.

The Controls and Commissioning Co-op will aid in the testing, implementation, and commissioning of PLC programs used to control conveyor systems and related equipment within the Material Handling Industry. This includes participating in system testing, assisting with field commissioning activities, and helping ensure compliance with customer specifications and project requirements.

The position provides valuable exposure to PLs, industrial networking, HMI systems, electrical design, troubleshooting, and field commissioning while working alongside experienced Controls Engineers.

Tasks

• Review electrical drawings, I/O lists, control narratives, and system documentation.
• Participate in system testing and validation efforts to ensure compliance with design requirements.
• Assist with completion of testing and commissioning documentation.
• Support field commissioning and startup activities for assigned projects.
• Aid in troubleshooting PLC programs, HMIs, industrial communication networks, and field devices.
• Travel to customer sites to support system testing, commissioning, and startup activities.

Skills

• Active Listening: Giving full attention to what others are saying and asking questions when appropriate.
• Troubleshooting: Assisting in identifying causes of equipment and system issues.
• Critical Thinking: Applying logical analysis to technical problems and potential solutions.
• Reading Comprehension: Understanding technical drawings, specifications, and engineering documentation.
• Complex Problem Solving: Supporting engineers in analyzing and resolving technical challenges.
• Technical Aptitude: Interest in industrial automation, controls systems, and material handling equipment.
• Ability to work effectively within a team environment.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

Attributes

• Strong desire to learn and develop technical skills.
• Positive attitude and strong work ethic.
• Problem-solving mindset and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing project priorities and schedules.
• Willingness to travel and support field activities as required.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related engineering field.
• Basic understanding of industrial automation, electrical controls, or PLC programming preferred.
• Familiarity with Rockwell Automation platforms, HMIs, or industrial communication networks is a plus but not required.
• Valid driver’s license
• Ability to travel up to 80-90% during co-op assignments as project needs require.

Work Environment

• This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, etc.
• When traveling the job environment shifts to a site-based, typically industrial. When traveling this role routinely uses appropriate PPE, electrical diagnostic tools, electrical implementation tools, laptops, and networking equipment.

Physical Demands

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• Ability to lift 25 pounds
• Ability to climb ladders
• Ability to navigate safely over and around warehouse automation equipment
• Physical stamina may be required for prolonged standing, bending, stooping, and/or working in cramped quarters.
• Exposure to potentially dangerous tools and equipment amidst a variety of building materials is probable, as is occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts.
• The noise level in the work environment can vary from being relatively quiet, to moderate, to excessive.