Controls Project Engineer I

vanderlande; United States; On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanderlande's Controls Engineering Department is seeking a Controls Project Engineer I in the United States to design, program, commission, and test material handling systems that integrate hardware and software components. This non-entry-level role requires independence and a track record of delivering projects on time.

You will work on PLC design, debugging, and testing, complete system documentation, and support commissioning activities on-site, traveling up to 50% as project needs dictate.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Technology or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 2 years of experience with material handling or industrial control systems.
• Experience with PLC-based hardware and software (Allen-Bradley, Siemens).
• Familiarity with Ethernet/IP, Modbus, and industrial networking.
• Strong troubleshooting, communication, and project skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, commission, and test material handling systems integrating hardware and software.
• Write, debug, and test PLC code; configure field devices and networks.
• Develop design docs, control panels, and test plans for commissioning.
• Support on-site commissioning, site execution, and progress reporting.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams and attend SCRUM meetings.

Skills

PLC programming

Industrial networking

Analytical skills

Teamwork

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Technology

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLC

Siemens PLC

SQL

C/C++ (basic)

Job description

Job Title

Controls Project Engineer I

Job Description

Vanderlande's Controls Engineering Department is responsible for the design, programming, commissioning, and testing of material handling systems for our customers. This is not an entry-level position. As a Controls Project Engineer I, you will be responsible for the design, commissioning, and testing of both small- and large-scale material handling systems that integrate hardware and software components.

In this role, you will work independently to deliver tangible results and support the successful completion of project milestones and fully operational systems.

Key Responsibilities

Controls Design & Documentation

• Review electrical drawings, specifications, and equipment lists to align PLC design
• Review system layouts, safety layouts, and power distributions (480 VAC, 120 VAC, 24 VDC)
• Review I/O layouts, network layouts, and third-party equipment mechanical and electrical interfaces
• Develop detailed design documentation, including controls functional specifications and descriptions of operation
• Create PLC design sheets, OEE flow maps, network topology diagrams, and interface lists
• Prepare test plans at the area, zone, and section levels
• Participate in internal peer reviews of PLC design elements

PLC Programming & Testing

• Write, debug, and test PLC code
• Configure component-level devices and field hardware
• Identify and troubleshoot network communication issues proactively and reactively
• Troubleshoot electrical and controls-related issues involving conveyors, motors, drives, and associated equipment

Commissioning & Site Execution

• Perform device-, zone-, area-, and system-level testing in support of commissioning
• Develop and execute commissioning checklists and document test results
• Commission and test PLC control panels independently
• Perform integrated system-level testing in support of PLC commissioning
• Conduct on-site quality checks and document system status and completion

Project Support & Coordination

• Document progress of assigned tasks and prepare daily and weekly progress reports
• Manage and execute punch list items to closure
• Monitor and document subcontractor progress and performance
• Provide remote customer support for existing systems
• Attend Controls SCRUM meetings and collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Follow all jobsite safety requirements and procedures

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Technology (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum 2 years of experience implementing material handling systems or industrial control systems
• Experience with PLC-based hardware and software (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent)
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, etc.)
• Solid understanding of PLC logic, programming, and troubleshooting
• Working knowledge of industrial networking principles and computer hardware setup
• Ability to prioritize work and manage multiple tasks effectively
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and research skills
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Team-oriented mindset with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 50%, with flexibility based on project needs

Desired Qualifications

• Understanding of electrical controls hardware design and power distribution (480 VAC / 120 VAC / 24 VDC)
• Knowledge of machine and system safety standards and design considerations
• Ability to read Structured Text (writing preferred)
• Experience with SQL, Visual Basic, C, C++, C#, or similar programming languages
• Familiarity with industrial automation hardware such as fieldbus systems and sensors
• Self-motivated and able to collaborate effectively with team members

Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EEOC Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.