Controls Engineer – Vehicle Wash Systems

head\-huntress.com • Cary, NC

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

Client is seeking a highly skilled Controls Engineer – Vehicle Wash Systems to join their engineering team. This role is responsible for the design, troubleshooting, support, and continuous improvement of automated vehicle wash systems. While strong PLC and controls knowledge is essential, mechanical aptitude and hands-on mechanical understanding are critical to success in this position. The ideal candidate will be equally comfortable working with mechanical assemblies, electrical systems, and control logic in both office and field environments.

Requirements

• Strong PLC and controls knowledge
• Mechanical aptitude and hands-on mechanical understanding
• Comfortable working with mechanical assemblies, electrical systems, and control logic
• Experience with AutoCAD
• Ability to interpret and troubleshoot mechanical drawings, equipment layouts, and system assemblies

Responsibilities

• Act as the Controls Engineer for small to medium-sized vehicle wash projects, supporting systems from design through commissioning.
• Travel approximately 20% to customer sites (Overnight - Once a month) to assist with vehicle wash startups, mechanical troubleshooting, and field inspections.
• Diagnose and resolve system issues remotely and onsite, with a strong focus on mechanical root-cause analysis in addition to PLC and electrical troubleshooting.
• Design, program, modify, and troubleshoot PLC and HMI applications.
• Develop clear, accurate, and cost-effective engineering drawings using AutoCAD, including mechanical layouts, schematics, and control documentation.
• Interpret and troubleshoot mechanical drawings, equipment layouts, and system assemblies, ensuring proper integration with control systems.
• Collaborate with project managers to ensure designs meet operational requirements, schedules, and budget constraints.
• Apply continuous improvement and lean principles to enhance system reliability, performance, and serviceability.
• Support the service department by assisting with BOM creation, technical quotes, and upgrade recommendations.
• Assist the sales team with technical evaluations, quotations, and jobsite walkthroughs when required.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed