Job Description

Programming Controls Engineer

Job Description

Exempt

Summary (Position Description): The Programming Controls Engineer is responsible for the programming, testing, design and implementation of industrial refrigeration control systems. This role involves PLC and HMI programming, configuring communication platforms, testing control systems, producing documentation, and assisting with project commissioning and training. The engineer will also integrate related equipment, troubleshoot electromechanical systems, and ensure compliance with industry standards. The position requires technical proficiency in control systems, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in various industrial environments, including refrigeration, HVAC, and energy systems. The position requires a strong high-level and abstract engineering vision and does not involve step-by-step supervision or constant prompting. The engineer should be able to understand and define the milestones independently.

Reports To: Programming Controls Engineering Supervisor

Duties:

• Perform PLC and HMI programming, including logic development, testing, and verification
• Configure communication platforms such as TCP/IP, Modbus RTU, Profinet, and Ethernet/IP
• Conduct testing and validation of control systems before deployment
• Create and maintain documentation, including functional descriptions and engineering summaries
• Provide hardware selection, circuit design, and sensor engineering support
• Assist in project commissioning, startup, and training
• Troubleshoot and resolve control system issues remotely and on-site service work
• Develop expertise in integrating related equipment, including screw compressor microprocessor panels and refrigeration systems
• Maintain industry knowledge through self-study and training
• Generate device lists, I/O lists, and sensor ranges from P&ID diagrams
• Support enterprise networking and integration with industrial equipment
• Complete weekly reports, project documentation, and timesheets
• Travel to project sites for commissioning and support

Competencies (Knowledge, Skills & Abilities):

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills to diagnose and resolve control system issues.

• Proficiency in industrial automation and control system design.

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to produce accurate documentation.

• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills to collaborate with engineers, technicians, and customers.

• Effective time management and organizational skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, particularly in technical documentation and reporting.

• Ability to adapt to new technologies and continuously improve technical knowledge.

• Familiarity with safety protocols and best practices in industrial automation environments.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or a related field.

• Experience with PLC and HMI programming using Allen Bradley, GE, Opto 22, FactoryTalk, or Wonderware.

• Hands-on experience with industrial control system design, including sensors, circuit design, and networking.

• Strong understanding of communication protocols such as TCP/IP, Modbus RTU, Profaned, and Ethernet/IP.

• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&ID diagrams, and technical drawings.

• Experience with variable speed drives and integration with industrial equipment.

• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills for electromechanical systems.

• Willingness to travel for on-site commissioning, start-up support, and training.

• Ability to work in industrial environments with varying conditions, including freezers and rooftops.

• Strong documentation and reporting skills to create functional descriptions, engineering summaries, and project documentation.

• Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on industry trends and emerging technologies.

Work Environment:

This role primarily takes place in an industrial and office setting. Work may be performed in environments with extreme temperatures, such as freezers and rooftops. Exposure to loud machinery and industrial equipment is expected. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required in certain work areas. Travel to customer sites for commissioning, troubleshooting, and training may be required.

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; bend; stoop; use hands; and reach with hands and arms. May be required to lift up to 25 pounds.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Employees are required to follow any job-related instructions and to perform job-related duties requested by management. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.

This Job Description does not imply an employment contract. VaCom is an at-will employer.

VaCom is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.

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