Controls Engineer in Fort Wayne
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Job DescriptionJob Description
Controls Engineer
Location: Fort Wayne, Indiana, United States
Work Setup: Onsite
Employment Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire
About the Opportunity
ZaphyrRecruit is hiring on behalf of a well-established automation and manufacturing company based in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Founded in 1986, the company has built a strong reputation for engineering excellence and industrial automation solutions, supported by decades of engineering expertise within the region.
The organization operates in a highly collaborative engineering environment where knowledge sharing and mentorship are core to the team’s culture. Engineers work closely together to design, program, and commission automation systems for customers across various industries.
This opportunity offers long-term career growth, with strong potential for advancement within the controls engineering leadership structure.
Position Overview
The Controls Engineer will be responsible for designing, programming, troubleshooting, and commissioning industrial control systems used in automated machinery and equipment.
The role involves working with PLC systems, electrical panel design, and on-site system commissioning, supporting both internal engineering teams and customer installations.
Engineers will initially work closely with experienced team members and the Controls Manager to learn the company's internal programming structure and automation templates before taking on larger project responsibilities. This role provides exposure to the full lifecycle of automation projects—from system design and programming to testing and installation.
Key Responsibilities
PLC Programming & System Development
- Develop and modify PLC programs for automated systems.
- Work with Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLC platforms depending on project requirements.
- Utilize internal templates and programming frameworks to support system development.
- Support integration of control systems within automated equipment.
Troubleshooting & System Support
- Diagnose and resolve electrical and control system issues during system development or customer installation.
- Provide technical support during system testing and startup.
- Work closely with technicians and engineers to ensure system reliability.
Electrical Design & Panel Development
- Assist with electrical panel design and control system schematics.
- Use AutoCAD Electrical to support design documentation.
- Collaborate with the engineering team to ensure designs align with system requirements.
Commissioning & Installation
- Participate in equipment startup and commissioning at customer facilities.
- Travel with technicians to install and troubleshoot automation systems when required.
- Support system validation and performance verification during installations.
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with senior engineers and the Controls Manager during project execution.
- Participate in project reviews, design discussions, and troubleshooting sessions.
- Contribute to a collaborative engineering environment where knowledge sharing is encouraged.
Travel Requirements
- Travel is primarily required for system installation and troubleshooting at customer sites.
- Engineers typically travel with a technician for support.
- Travel is usually planned ahead according to project timelines, though urgent travel with 3–4 days’ notice may occasionally occur.
- The company assists with travel arrangements when required.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field (or equivalent practical experience).
- Experience working with PLC systems, preferably Allen-Bradley or Siemens.
- Basic to intermediate experience with PLC programming or system modification.
- Familiarity with electrical control systems and industrial automation equipment.
- Experience using AutoCAD Electrical or similar electrical design software.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
Qualifications
- Experience programming PLC systems from scratch.
- Prior experience in industrial automation, manufacturing, or machine building environments.
- Experience participating in equipment commissioning or installation projects.
- Exposure to international automation projects using Siemens PLC systems.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate is a proactive and collaborative engineer who enjoys solving technical problems and working within a team-oriented environment.
Successful candidates will demonstrate:
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- A hands-on troubleshooting mindset
- Willingness to ask questions and learn from senior engineers
- Comfort with occasional travel for installations
- Interest in long-term career growth within controls engineering
Career Growth
This role offers strong potential for long-term advancement within the engineering organization.
As the current leadership team continues to develop future engineering leaders, high-performing engineers may have the opportunity to progress toward senior engineering or control engineering management roles.
Work Authorization
Visa sponsorship is not available for this role at this time.
Preference will be given to candidates authorized to work in the United States.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary: $70,000 – $120,000 annually (Depending on experience)
- 3 weeks of PTO to start
- Up to 5 weeks PTO with tenure
- 10 paid bank holidays
- Opportunities for long-term career growth and advancement
If you are interested in applying for this job please press the Apply Button and follow the application process. Energy Jobline wishes you the very best of luck in your next career move.