Controls Systems Engineer

Job Overview

This Controls Systems Engineer role in Worcester, MA focuses on designing and optimizing automated systems. You'll work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human machine interfaces (HMIs), and various industrial control networks. The work ranges from troubleshooting field issues to developing new control strategies. It's a hands on technical role, but you'll also spend time documenting designs and collaborating with electrical and mechanical teams.

Duties & Responsibilities ; Worcester, MA

• Develop and modify PLC and HMI programs for manufacturing and process equipment. This includes writing logic from scratch and adapting existing code.
• Troubleshoot control system failures on the plant floor. You'll need to diagnose issues quickly, whether it's a faulty sensor, a wiring problem, or a software bug.
• Create and maintain electrical schematics and control panel layouts using CAD software. Accuracy here prevents costly installation errors.
• Commission new equipment and systems. You'll oversee startup, verify that all components communicate correctly, and tune control loops.
• Support continuous improvement projects. This might involve upgrading older PLCs or implementing new safety protocols.
• Write technical documentation for operators and maintenance staff. Clear manuals mean fewer calls at 2 AM.

Requirements ; Worcester, MA

• Four year degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a closely related field. A mix of education and relevant work experience is acceptable for some roles.
• Two to five years of hands on experience with industrial control systems. Internships or co op work counts here.
• Proficiency with at least one major PLC platform ; Rockwell Automation, Siemens, or Allen Bradley are common.
• Familiarity with HMI software such as FactoryTalk View or WinCC.
• Understanding of industrial communication protocols like EtherNet/IP, Profinet, or Modbus.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and P&ID diagrams.
• Comfortable walking and standing for extended periods on a production floor. You'll occasionally work in tight spaces or near operating machinery.

What It's Like in This Role ; Worcester, MA

The environment mixes time at a desk with time on the plant floor. You'll collaborate with maintenance technicians who know every machine's quirks, and project managers who keep things on schedule. The tools you'll use include laptops loaded with programming software, multimeters, and oscilloscopes. Shifts are typically standard business hours, but some positions require occasional weekend work during system upgrades or production shutdowns. Workload can get heavy when a critical line goes down ; you'll be part of the response team.

Why You'll Like This Opportunity

Employers in Worcester, MA often offer flexible scheduling to avoid burnout. There's genuine room to move up ; many controls engineers transition into senior roles or project management. You'll work with different automation technologies, so you're constantly learning. And because the job market for controls talent is tight, you'll have leverage to negotiate terms that matter to you.

Schedule & Work Type

Most roles are full time and require on site presence. Some hybrid arrangements exist, especially for the design and programming portions of the work. Shift work is rare but possible in facilities that run 24/7. Contract to hire and direct hire positions are both common for this specialty.

How to Apply

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Equal Opportunity

Qualified applicants receive consideration regardless of background. Hiring decisions are based on skill, experience, and fit for the role.