Controls Systems Engineer

Accelera; Pontoon Beach (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Accelera in Pontoon Beach, IL is seeking a Controls Systems Engineer to design, maintain, and optimize automation and material handling systems, serving as technical lead to ensure high availability and performance of critical infrastructure.

The role focuses on PLC programming with Allen-Bradley platforms, SCADA monitoring, and robotics control, collaborating across teams to deliver reliable, efficient systems and drive continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent technical experience.
• Proven expertise in PLC programming, SCADA monitoring, and robotics control systems.
• Experience managing at least two full engineering design cycles from specification to deployment.
• Ability to perform physical tasks including climbing, lifting up to 50 lbs, and working in industrial environments.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work autonomously in high-pressure situations.
• Authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement reliability improvements for industrial automation networks, including Ethernet, Profibus, and motor control systems.
• Develop and modify PLC software logic using Allen Bradley platforms to enhance system throughput and reduce downtime.
• Lead the troubleshooting of sophisticated electromechanical issues, serving as the primary technical escalation point for site-wide controls.
• Manage the lifecycle of automation projects, from initial scope development and contractor oversight to final network implementation.
• Perform comprehensive system assessments to ensure equipment operates within design specifications and safety standards.
• Analyze failure data to identify root causes and implement corrective strategies that prevent future operational disruptions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to communicate project timelines, technical requirements, and performance impacts effectively.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA monitoring

Robotics control

System diagnostics

Autonomous work

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

Allen-Bradley platforms

Ethernet/Profibus networks

Job description

As a Controls Systems Engineer, you will drive operational efficiency by designing, maintaining, and optimizing complex automation and material handling systems. You will serve as a technical lead, ensuring high availability and performance of critical infrastructure through advanced PLC programming and system diagnostics.

About the Role

As a Controls Systems Engineer, you will drive operational efficiency by designing, maintaining, and optimizing complex automation and material handling systems. You will serve as a technical lead, ensuring high availability and performance of critical infrastructure through advanced PLC programming and system diagnostics.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement reliability improvements for industrial automation networks, including Ethernet, Profibus, and motor control systems.
• Develop and modify PLC software logic using Allen Bradley platforms to enhance system throughput and reduce downtime.
• Lead the troubleshooting of sophisticated electromechanical issues, serving as the primary technical escalation point for site-wide controls.
• Manage the lifecycle of automation projects, from initial scope development and contractor oversight to final network implementation.
• Perform comprehensive system assessments to ensure equipment operates within design specifications and safety standards.
• Analyze failure data to identify root causes and implement corrective strategies that prevent future operational disruptions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to communicate project timelines, technical requirements, and performance impacts effectively.

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent technical experience (2-5 years).
• Proven expertise in PLC programming, SCADA monitoring, and robotics control systems.
• Experience managing at least two full engineering design cycles from specification to deployment.
• Ability to perform physical tasks including climbing, lifting up to 50 lbs, and working in industrial environments.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work autonomously in high-pressure situations.
• Authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Preferred Skills

• Completion of a formal controls systems apprenticeship or equivalent specialized training.
• Hands-on experience maintaining conveyor sortation systems and robotic hardware.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite for reporting and data analysis.
• Strong mathematical aptitude for calculating complex performance metrics and operational figures.