Job Title: Control Systems Engineer (Electrical)

Job Summary:

The Senior Control Systems Engineer (Electrical) is responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, optimization, and maintenance of complex electrical control systems used in industrial and commercial applications. This role requires advanced expertise in control systems, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA systems, and automation. The Senior Engineer will lead projects, mentor junior and mid-level engineers, troubleshoot complex system issues, and ensure that control systems meet the highest standards of performance, safety, and reliability. This position plays a key role in system optimization, process improvements, and the integration of new technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Control System Design and Strategy:

   • Lead the design and development of advanced electrical control systems, including PLCs, SCADA, HMI, control panels, sensors, actuators, and automation systems.
   • Define control strategies, system architectures, and integration methods for large-scale projects.
   • Collaborate with engineering and project teams to ensure that designs align with client requirements and operational goals.
   • Review and validate technical designs, specifications, and system configurations for quality, reliability, and performance.

2. Project Leadership and Management:

   • Manage and oversee multiple control systems projects from concept to completion, including planning, execution, and delivery.
   • Develop project schedules, allocate resources, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
   • Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including electrical, mechanical, and instrumentation engineers, to integrate control systems with other components.
   • Monitor project progress, proactively identify potential risks, and implement solutions to mitigate delays or issues.

3. System Optimization and Performance Tuning:

   • Lead efforts to optimize control system performance, ensuring reliability, efficiency, and safety.
   • Continuously evaluate system performance, troubleshoot complex issues, and make recommendations for system improvements or upgrades.
   • Implement energy-saving initiatives, reduce downtime, and improve system throughput by optimizing control strategies and processes.
   • Work closely with operations teams to implement process improvements and ensure that control systems operate within desired parameters.

4. Troubleshooting and Diagnostics:

   • Lead complex troubleshooting efforts for electrical control systems, automation systems, PLCs, SCADA, and instrumentation.
   • Identify and resolve issues related to equipment failures, system malfunctions, or inefficiencies, ensuring minimal downtime and operational disruption.
   • Provide expert guidance to the team in resolving system faults and diagnosing root causes of issues.

5. Mentorship and Team Development:

   • Mentor and guide junior and mid-level engineers, providing technical support, advice, and training on control system design, programming, and troubleshooting.
   • Conduct training sessions, workshops, and technical reviews to ensure that team members develop their skills and knowledge.
   • Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement within the engineering team.
   • Lead performance evaluations and provide feedback to engineers, supporting their professional growth and development.

6. Safety and Compliance:

   • Ensure that all control systems comply with industry safety standards, regulatory requirements (e.g., NEC, IEC, OSHA), and best practices.
   • Lead safety audits, risk assessments, and compliance checks, ensuring that systems meet operational and safety guidelines.
   • Promote safety awareness and best practices within the engineering team and across other departments involved in control system projects.

7. Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams:

   • Collaborate with project managers, operations teams, and other engineering disciplines (e.g., mechanical, civil) to ensure smooth integration of control systems with other parts of a project.
   • Work closely with clients, vendors, and contractors to ensure that system requirements are met and that control systems are delivered to specifications.
   • Serve as a technical advisor for other teams, providing input on system design, troubleshooting, and optimization strategies.

8. Documentation and Reporting:

   • Ensure that all project documentation is accurate, complete, and accessible, including system designs, specifications, commissioning reports, and troubleshooting logs.
   • Prepare and present detailed reports on system performance, issues, corrective actions, and improvements to senior management and clients.
   • Maintain a comprehensive record of control system configurations, modifications, and maintenance activities for future reference and audits.

9. Technology Research and Innovation:

   • Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in control systems engineering, automation, PLC programming, and industrial networks.
   • Evaluate and implement new tools, technologies, and methodologies that can improve system performance, reduce costs, and enhance system reliability.
   • Drive innovation within the engineering team, encouraging the adoption of new technologies and techniques to improve processes and solve engineering challenges.

Skills and Knowledge Required:

• Extensive knowledge of electrical control systems, PLCs (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Rockwell), SCADA, HMI, and automation technologies.
• Expertise in system design, programming, troubleshooting, and optimization of PLC-based control systems and industrial automation.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage budgets, and meet project timelines.
• Advanced troubleshooting skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex control system faults.
• In-depth understanding of electrical safety standards, industry codes (e.g., NEC, IEC), and regulatory compliance (e.g., OSHA, NFPA).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams, clients, vendors, and contractors.
• Leadership skills, with experience managing, mentoring, and developing engineering teams.
• Experience with system integration, instrumentation, and industrial network protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP).

Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Certifications in PLC programming, industrial automation, project management, or electrical safety (e.g., PMP, Six Sigma, NEC, Siemens, Allen-Bradley) are highly desirable.

Experience:

• 7+ years of experience in electrical control systems, automation, and industrial systems engineering, with at least 3-5 years in a senior or leadership role.
• Proven experience in managing control system projects, troubleshooting complex systems, and optimizing system performance.
• Experience with large-scale automation projects, SCADA systems, and integrating control systems with other engineering disciplines (e.g., electrical, mechanical).

Tools and Technologies:

• Proficiency in PLC programming software (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000, Allen-Bradley).
• Familiarity with SCADA software (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition, Siemens WinCC) and HMI development.
• Experience with electrical design software and simulation tools (e.g., AutoCAD, MATLAB, LabVIEW).
• Knowledge of industrial control protocols, communication networks, and cybersecurity best practices.

Other Requirements:

• Strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple projects and priorities.
• Ability to work independently and make decisions under pressure, maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
• Willingness to travel to project sites, client meetings, and vendor locations as required.
• A proactive attitude and a commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.