Controls Engineer in Spokane

Job DescriptionJob Description

Location: Twin Falls ID

Shift M-F 1st shift

We are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to develop, maintain, and support plant-level automation, controls, and industrial networking systems. The successful candidate will serve as a subject matter expert for Allen-Bradley automation and Ethernet/IP networks, deliver reliable automation solutions, and partner with cross-functional teams to improve operational reliability and data integration.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, implement, and administer Allen‑Bradley PLC systems (ControlLogix, CompactLogix) and related HMI/SCADA applications (FactoryTalk View ME/SE, Ignition, Wonderware).
• Engineer automation solutions including PLC logic, VFD/PowerFlex integration, device selection, electrical control panel design, schematics, flow charts, scopes of work, schedules, and cost estimates—performed in‑house or managed with integrators.
• Administer and maintain the plant Ethernet/IP network and managed industrial switches (Hirschmann, Stratix), including configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
• Provide advanced break/fix support for automation, controls, PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, and network issues across the facility.
• Troubleshoot complex electrical, automation, and network problems and lead root‑cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Maintain and update automation software and toolsets (Rockwell Studio 5000, FactoryTalk, PowerFlex tools, Ignition, Wonderware, ICIS, network monitoring tools) and ensure version control of programs and documentation.
• Manage and maintain plant historians, databases, and automation data structures; produce energy, production, and operational reports using tools such as Wonderware Historian, ICIS, and SEEQ.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation including PLC programs, HMI programs, electrical ladder diagrams, P&IDs, pin charts, and sequences of operation.
• Collaborate with IT to integrate plant‑floor data with ERP/MES systems and maintain secure, reliable data pathways.
• Share technical knowledge by providing training and mentoring to maintenance and engineering personnel and promote controls and network best practices.
• Support project execution, continuous improvement initiatives, and cross‑functional engineering efforts related to controls and automation.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience as a Controls/Automation Engineer with a focus on Allen‑Bradley platforms.
• Proven hands‑on experience with Allen‑Bradley PLCs (ControlLogix, CompactLogix), ladder logic, function block, and tag‑based programming.
• Advanced experience with PowerFlex drives (setup, tuning, Ethernet/IP communications, troubleshooting).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA platforms such as FactoryTalk View ME/SE, Ignition, or Wonderware.
• Strong knowledge of Ethernet/IP networks, industrial switches, and network diagnostics (Hirschmann/HiVision ).
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot electrical control systems, automation hardware, and industrial communications.
• Proficiency with Windows OS, virtual machines (VMWare/Hyper‑V), and intermediate familiarity with MSSQL, Microsoft Access, and OPC interfaces.
• Ability to produce and interpret electrical diagrams, flow diagrams, and P&IDs (AutoCAD and Visio experience ).
• Strong documentation, communication, and training skills; ability to manage multiple technical tasks under time constraints.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent experience (10+ years relevant experience may substitute).
• Experience with Wonderware Historian, SEEQ, ICIS Energy Management, or similar reporting and analytics tools.
• Prior experience integrating plant automation with ERP/MES systems.
• Familiarity with industrial sensors, servos, safety circuits, instrumentation, and a broad range of automation devices.

Benefits and Workplace

• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage; insurance; HSA and FSA options.
• 401(k) with 100% company match up to 5% of eligible pay.
• Paid time off and holidays; parental leave; fertility and childcare assistance; tuition reimbursement; wellness resources.
• Relocation assistance available where applicable.