Entry-Level Controls Engineer – Food Processing Automation

Laitram LLC; Harahan (LA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Laitram Machinery is seeking an Entry Level Controls Engineer to design, develop, implement, and support industrial control systems for food processing machinery. This engineer will work with a peer and support across the full machine lifecycle from design through commissioning and continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate has a BS in Engineering or related field and experience with PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and system integration. Position located in Harahan, LA with travel as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field.
• Ability to read electrical schematics, drawings and manuals.
• Proficient with PLCs, HMIs, industrial computers, networks and VFDs.
• Strong verbal and written communication with teams and customers.
• Self-motivated with a continuous learning mindset.
• Excellent organization with multiple priorities in a fast pace.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel/Word/PowerPoint).
• Willingness to travel 5–10% domestically and internationally.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, implement, and support industrial control systems.
• Write, document, and debug control software for field devices.
• Develop systems based on Schneider Electric PLC, HMI, and VFD platforms.
• Support lifecycle from design to commissioning and improvements.
• Create technical documentation and training materials.
• Provide remote and onsite troubleshooting of control systems.
• Collaborate with Purchasing, Suppliers, and Project Managers.
• Ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

VFDs

Schematic reading

Networking concepts

Documentation

Communication

Office suite

Travel ready

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

Schneider Electric PLCs

Schneider Electric HMIs

Schneider Electric VFDs

SolidWorks/Creo

SQL/data integration

Python/PowerShell scripting

Job description

Laitram Machinery is seeking an Entry Level Controls Engineer to design, develop, implement, and support industrial control systems for food processing machinery. This engineer will work with a peer and support across the full machine lifecycle from design through commissioning and continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate has a BS in Engineering or related field and experience with PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, and system integration. Position located in Harahan, LA with travel as required.