Controls Retrofit Engineer

TalentCompass; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

TalentCompass is seeking a Controls Engineer (Retrofit) to lead medium-complexity retrofit projects for material-handling systems. You will own design through PLC/HMI programming, documentation, testing, commissioning, and startup support, collaborating with engineering, installation, and PM teams.

The ideal candidate has 6+ years in controls engineering, strong Siemens/TIA Portal and HMI experience, and a background in industrial automation. Travel 30-40% will be required.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of hands-on controls engineering experience; retrofit/modernization preferred.
• Strong PLC programming skills with ladder logic and Siemens/TIA Portal experience.
• Experience with HMI applications, VFDs/AC drives, and EtherNet/IP networks.
• Ability to read and create electrical and AutoCAD drawings.
• Background in material handling or industrial automation.

Responsibilities

• Lead controls retrofit projects from design through site start-up.
• Design controls systems and electrical drawings using AutoCAD and e-drawings.
• Program, test, and debug PLCs and HMIs to meet project requirements.
• Prepare project documentation, including drawings and turnover materials.
• Commission systems and provide on-site start-up support at customer sites.
• Design and implement EtherNet/IP networks; integrate drives, safety, and field devices.
• Troubleshoot controls issues in the field and coordinate with teams.
• Travel to customer sites approximately 30-40% of the time.

Skills

Siemens S7 / TIA Portal

Rockwell/Allen-Bradley

HMI development

EtherNet/IP networks

VFDs / AC drives

Electrical drawings reading

Project coordination

Industrial safety standards

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

AutoCAD

e-drawings

TI A Portal

Job description

DISCLAIMER: While we appreciate and review all applications, we are only able to respond to qualified applicants. Thank you for your understanding.

Company Background

Our client is a global provider of automated material-handling and logistics solutions, delivering advanced automation systems for warehouses, distribution centers, and production environments.

The Position

As the Controls Engineer (Retrofit), you will lead medium-complexity controls retrofit projects for material-handling and automation equipment. You will own the work from controls design through PLC/HMI programming, documentation, testing, commissioning, and site start-up support, serving as a key connection between engineering, installation, and project management teams to ensure successful delivery at customer sites.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Lead controls retrofit and modernization projects from design through site start-up.
• Design controls systems and develop electrical drawings using AutoCAD / e-drawings.
• Program, test, and debug PLCs and HMIs to meet project requirements.
• Prepare project documentation, including drawings, test records, and turnover materials.
• Commission systems and provide on-site start-up support, ensuring equipment is tested, verified, and ready for operation.
• Design and implement EtherNet/IP networks and integrate VFDs / AC drives, machine safety, and field devices.
• Troubleshoot and resolve controls issues in the field.
• Communicate project status and coordinate with customers, project managers, and installation teams.
• Travel to customer sites approximately 30-40% of the time.

Qualifications and Candidate Background

The ideal candidate will have:

• 6+ years of hands-on controls engineering experience (10+ years ideal).
• Several years of retrofit or modernization experience preferred.
• Strong PLC programming skills, including ladder logic, with Siemens / TIA Portal experience. Rockwell / Allen-Bradley experience is a plus.
• Experience developing HMI applications and working with VFDs / AC drives.
• Knowledge of EtherNet/IP network design; familiarity with Profibus, Profinet, and ASi.
• Understanding of machine safety principles and standards.
• Ability to read and create electrical and AutoCAD drawings.
• Background in material handling, conveyor systems, warehouse automation, industrial automation, or manufacturing.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field, or equivalent technical experience.
• No certifications required.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work safely and effectively in industrial and warehouse environments.

Location

This role is based in Grand Rapids, MI, with 30-40% travel to customer sites.

Your information will not be shared with any outside parties without your prior consent.