Electrical Controls Engineer Job Description Overview
The role of an Electrical Controls Engineer is crucial in the Electrical / Automation sector as it involves designing, developing, and maintaining electrical control systems to ensure the efficiency and reliability of automation processes. This position directly contributes to the company’s success by optimizing automation systems, enhancing production processes, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- The Electrical Controls Engineer plays a vital role in team collaboration by working closely with electrical engineers, automation specialists, and production teams to integrate control systems seamlessly into operations.
- This role impacts company goals by implementing innovative control solutions that improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance overall productivity.
- Major innovations in this field include the integration of IoT technology, advanced PLC programming, and the adoption of AI for predictive maintenance, presenting challenges and opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Key stakeholders for an Electrical Controls Engineer include project managers, electrical technicians, plant managers, and external vendors, positioning this role at the intersection of technical expertise and project management.
- Success in this role is measured by meeting project deadlines, ensuring system reliability, optimizing control processes, and achieving key performance indicators related to operational efficiency and cost savings.
Key Responsibilities
An Electrical Controls Engineer is responsible for a variety of key tasks and duties:
- Project Planning and Execution: This role involves creating project plans, defining milestones, coordinating resources, and overseeing the successful implementation of control systems within specified timelines.
- Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Electrical Controls Engineers troubleshoot complex issues, analyze data, and make critical decisions to ensure optimal performance and reliability of control systems.
- Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams: Working closely with design engineers, software developers, and maintenance teams to integrate control systems, ensuring seamless operation and alignment with project objectives.
- Leadership and Mentorship: Providing technical guidance, mentorship, and leadership to junior engineers or team members to enhance skills, knowledge, and overall team performance.
- Process Improvement and Innovation: Continuously seeking opportunities to enhance control system processes, implement automation solutions, and drive innovation to improve operational efficiency.
- Technical or Customer-Facing Responsibilities: Engaging in client meetings, presenting technical solutions, and addressing customer requirements to deliver customized control system solutions.
Required Skills and Qualifications
To excel in the role of an Electrical Controls Engineer, candidates should possess the following skills, qualifications, and experiences:
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in PLC programming, HMI design, SCADA systems, electrical schematics, and industrial communication protocols like Modbus and Ethernet/IP.
- Educational Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related field. Relevant certifications in control systems are a plus.
- Experience Level: 3+ years of experience in designing and implementing electrical control systems in manufacturing or automation industries. Prior roles in project management or system integration are beneficial.
- Soft Skills: Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication skills, adaptability to changing project requirements, demonstrated leadership qualities, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Industry Knowledge: Understanding of industry standards, safety regulations, quality control processes, and familiarity with automation technologies and trends in the Electrical / Automation sector.
Preferred Qualifications
Preferred qualifications that would enhance a candidate’s profile for the role include:
- Experience in similar industries, such as automotive manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, or food processing, with a proven track record of successful project implementations.
- Holding advanced certifications in PLC programming, industrial automation, or project management. Leadership training or specialized education in control systems is advantageous.
- Familiarity with emerging trends like AI-driven automation, IoT integration, advanced control algorithms, or Industry 4.0 technologies.
- Demonstrated experience in scaling operations, expanding automation systems in global markets, or leading process improvement initiatives to drive operational excellence.
- Active participation in industry conferences, speaker panels, published technical papers, or contributions to industry publications showcasing thought leadership in control systems.
- Additional foreign language proficiency if required for global collaboration with international clients or team members.
Compensation and Benefits
We offer a comprehensive compensation package to attract top talent in the Electrical / Automation sector:
- Base Salary: Competitive salary range commensurate with experience and expertise in electrical control systems engineering.
- Bonuses & Incentives: Performance-based bonuses, profit-sharing opportunities, and stock options to reward exceptional contributions.
- Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage, wellness programs, and access to fitness facilities.
- Retirement Plans: 401k retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions and pension schemes for long-term financial security.
- Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, sick leave, parental leave, and personal days to promote work-life balance and well-being.
- Career Growth: Training programs, professional development courses, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement paths to support continuous learning and skill enhancement.
Application Process
Joining our team as an Electrical Controls Engineer involves the following application process:
- Submitting Your Application: Interested candidates should submit their resume and cover letter through our online application portal to be considered for the role.
- Initial Screening: Our HR team will review applications to assess qualifications and experience. Selected candidates will be contacted for a screening interview.
- Technical and Skills Assessment: Depending on the role, candidates may undergo technical tests, case studies, or practical demonstrations of their skills.
- Final Interview: Successful candidates from the assessment stage will have a final interview with the hiring manager to evaluate their fit for the role and compatibility with our company culture.
- Offer and Onboarding: Candidates who pass all stages will receive an official job offer and begin the onboarding process to integrate seamlessly into our dynamic team.
