Entry Level Controls Engineer
The Entry Level Controls Engineer at Confidential Client is responsible for designing, developing, and supporting industrial control systems for food processing equipment throughout the full machine lifecycle. This role involves programming PLCs and HMIs, integrating field devices, troubleshooting onsite and remotely, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance system performance and reliability in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Overview
This opportunity is for an Entry Level Controls Engineer supporting industrial machine control systems for a confidential client in the Engineering sector. The role focuses on design, implementation, testing, and support of PLC/HMI/VFD-based control systems through the full product lifecycle. This position is full-time and listed as telecommute-friendly (remote), with occasional on-site work and limited travel.
What You’ll Do
- Independently write, implement, document, and debug control system software for production machinery.
- Integrate and test field devices such as VFDs, photo-eyes, encoders, solenoids, scales, sensors, and servos.
- Develop and support machine control systems primarily on Schneider Electric PLC, HMI, and VFD platforms.
- Support systems through design, build, factory testing, installation, commissioning, and continuous improvement.
- Produce clear technical documentation, control logic descriptions, and training materials for engineers, technicians, customers, and suppliers.
- Provide remote troubleshooting and, when required, on-site commissioning and installation support at customer facilities.
- Collaborate with Purchasing, Suppliers, Project Managers, and cross-functional engineering teams to deliver high-quality solutions.
- Adhere to all company, customer, and regulatory safety requirements while working in manufacturing and customer environments.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Instrumentation & Control Systems, Computer Science, or a closely related field.
- Working knowledge of industrial computers, networking, and system integration concepts.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, manufacturer drawings, and technical manuals.
- Proficiency configuring and supporting PLCs, HMIs, industrial computers, networks, and variable frequency drives (VFDs).
- Strong verbal and written communication skills; able to work effectively with engineering teams, customers, and suppliers.
- Self-motivated with a continuous learning mindset and strong organizational skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Willingness to travel approximately 5–10% (domestic and occasional international) for customer and factory support.
Preferred Qualifications
- Hands-on experience with Schneider Electric PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, servos, and associated programming tools.
- Familiarity with other major PLC platforms and industrial control toolchains.
- Knowledge of UL requirements and the National Electrical Code (NEC).
- Experience with 3D CAD (SolidWorks, Creo/Pro/ENGINEER) for reviewing electrical/mechanical layouts.
- Scripting or automation experience (Python, PowerShell) and familiarity with SQL or data integration between control systems and databases.
Compensation & Benefits
- Estimated base pay: $72,362 per year (estimated).
- Typical benefits offered by the confidential client may include medical/dental/vision insurance, 401(k), paid time off, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, and wellness resources. Exact benefits will be communicated by the hiring organization.
Work Location & Travel
- Job listing location (authoritative): Custom House, LA, US.
- Job is listed as TELECOMMUTE/REMOTE-friendly but may require on-site presence for commissioning, installation, or troubleshooting. Travel expected approximately 5–10% based on project needs.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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