Electrical Control Engineer

Vantage Consulting; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 108,000 - 132,000; Full time

Job summary

A custom machinery builder in Buffalo seeks an experienced Electrical Controls Engineer focused on programming PLC-based automation systems. This role involves developing and commissioning automation solutions, predominantly using Rockwell platforms. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and 3+ years of experience in controls engineering. A competitive salary up to $120,000 is offered, along with contract-to-hire options. Join a team that values technical excellence and project stability through 2026.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in industrial automation and controls engineering.
• Strong experience with PLC applications and programming.
• Ability to collaborate with engineering teams for system integration.

Responsibilities

• Develop, program, and debug PLC applications using Rockwell platforms.
• Design and configure HMI applications for automation systems.
• Troubleshoot and optimize machine performance.

Skills

Rockwell PLC programming

Troubleshooting

Electrical design interpretation

HMI application design

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Job description

Overview

Buffalo, New York Up to $120,000 (DOE) or Contract-to-Hire Option

Less than 10%

We are a Buffalo-based custom machinery builder delivering innovative, high-performance automated equipment to a diverse industrial client base.

With a strong pipeline of confirmed projects heading into 2026, we are expanding our engineering team to support continued growth and technical excellence.

We are seeking an experienced Electrical Controls Engineer who thrives in a programming-focused environment.

This role is ideal for a controls professional who enjoys spending the majority of their time developing, programming, and commissioning PLC-based automation systems. Approximately 80% of your time will be dedicated to PLC programming (Rockwell platforms), with the remaining 20% focused on electrical design, including reading and interpreting electrical schematics and supporting panel/system design.

Key Responsibilities

• Controls Programming (80%): Develop, program, and debug PLC applications primarily using Rockwell Automation (Allen-Bradley) platforms (ControlLogix, CompactLogix).
• Design and configure HMI applications.
• Perform system testing, validation, and on-site commissioning.
• Troubleshoot and optimize machine performance.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical teams to ensure seamless system integration.
• Electrical Design Support (20%): Interpret and review electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Assist with electrical system design and panel layouts.
• Ensure compliance with applicable electrical codes and industry standards.
• Support documentation and technical reviews.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3+ years of experience in industrial automation and controls engineering.
• Strong experience with Rockwell PLC programming (Studio 5000 / RSLogix).
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics.
• Experience in custom machinery or automated equipment preferred.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to travel occasionally.
• Competitive salary up to $120,000 based on experience.
• Contract-to-hire option for candidates seeking flexibility.
• Strong project pipeline and job stability through 2026 and beyond.
• Opportunity to work on diverse, technically challenging custom automation projects.
• Collaborative engineering-driven culture.
• If you’re a programming-focused Controls Engineer looking to work on custom automation projects with long-term stability and growth in the Buffalo area, we’d love to hear from you.