Controls Engineer (On-Site)

Job Description

Controls Engineer
Location: Syracuse, NY (On-site)
Status: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports To: Engineering Team Lead
Direct Reports: None
Bonus: None
Remote: No

Overview

A longstanding manufacturer of custom automated machinery is seeking a Controls Engineer to support the design, development, and commissioning of industrial equipment used in high-volume production environments. The organization specializes in engineered-to-order systems that serve a wide range of industries, including consumer goods, food production, pharmaceuticals, and general manufacturing.

The company promotes continuous improvement, collaboration, and professional development, offering employees opportunities to advance their skills and contribute meaningfully to ongoing product and process innovation.

Position Summary

The Controls Engineer will design machine control systems, develop supporting subsystems, and support multiple projects simultaneously. Responsibilities include configuring hardware, programming control logic, performing system commissioning both in-house and at customer sites, and ensuring all solutions meet quality, safety, and performance requirements.

This role works closely with electrical design, assembly, service teams, and applications engineering, and may involve occasional travel to customer facilities for commissioning and technical support.

Key Responsibilities

Controls Design & Development

• Create machine control system designs in accordance with established engineering standards.

• Select and requisition components while adhering to approved vendor guidelines.

• Integrate standard subsystems and design methods to ensure efficient manufacturing, safe operation, and reliable long-term performance.

• Develop control logic, HMI interfaces, and safety routines that support operational requirements.

Project Execution

• Complete work within defined scope, cost, quality, and schedule constraints.

• Provide technical direction to manufacturing, electrical wiring, and field service personnel.

• Participate in engineering reviews, departmental meetings, and cross-functional planning sessions.

• Support applications engineering with concepts, system simulations, and technical evaluation for new project proposals.

Commissioning & Field Support

• Perform in-house testing and acceptance of machinery prior to shipment.

• Travel to customer sites for commissioning, troubleshooting, and support of new or modified equipment (estimated 10–15% travel).

• Support emergency service situations for controls-related production downtime.

• Maintain eligibility for required domestic and international travel documentation.

Simulation & Proposal Support

• Build new robotic or system simulations for prospective projects.

• Modify and update existing simulations as needed for equipment upgrades or customer requests.

• Assist with conceptual design, cost estimation, and technical justification for new proposals.

Continuous Improvement

• Evaluate internal processes and work practices to identify improvement opportunities.

• Maintain awareness of emerging technologies, industry best practices, and applicable engineering standards.

• Participate in ongoing training, development, and professional networking.

Other Duties

• Support organizational initiatives as assigned.

• Provide high-quality communication, documentation, and collaboration across engineering and operations teams.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.

Experience

• 3+ years of experience in a design-build or custom automation environment as a Controls Engineer.

Technical Skills

• Experience designing control systems for automated equipment.

• Familiarity with PLC programming, HMI development, robotics, safety circuits, and electrical components.

• Project management experience preferred.

• Proficiency with standard engineering, design, and lifecycle management software.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage

• Health Savings Account (HSA) / Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options

• 401(k) with company contribution

• Company-paid life and AD&D insurance

• Optional supplemental life insurance