Industrial Controls Engineer: Hands-On Automation Leader

Smiths Group

Portland (TN)

On-site

USD 85,000 - 110,000

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

Smiths Group, via Flex-Tek Innovation Team, seeks an Industrial Controls Engineer to drive automation projects from concept to plant floor. You will design control panels, write PLC/HMI logic, and integrate with mechanical and electrical systems to deliver safe, reliable production solutions.

You will evaluate opportunities, support startups, and ensure documentation is clear and maintainable. Travel 10–20% is expected as you partner with sites and engineering teams to optimize safety, quality,

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, Controls Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field.
5+ years of experience in industrial controls and automation.
Experience with HMI/SCADA systems (e.g., C-more, FactoryTalk, WinCC, Ignition).
Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus).
Familiarity with electrical design software (Solidworks Electrical Schematic, Draftsight, EPLAN).
Knowledge of safety standards (Cat. 1-4, NFPA 70E, UL508A, ISO 13849).
Excellent problem‑solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

Develop PLC, HMI, SCADA, and networked control systems.
Create electrical schematics, panel layouts, and control system designs.
Collaborate with Mechanical Design Engineers to ensure early consideration of controls and safety.
Select sensors, actuators, drives, and hardware suited to the application.
Program PLCs and configure HMIs for production use.
Integrate controls with mechanical, electrical, robotic, and process equipment.
Support hands‑on control panel builds and wiring checks.
Test, troubleshoot, and refine automation sequences and safety interlocks.