Controls Project Engineer I

Vanderlande•Marietta, GA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Vanderlande’s Controls Engineering Department is responsible for the design, programming, commissioning, and testing of material handling systems for our customers. This is not an entry-level position. As a Controls Project Engineer I, you will be responsible for the design, commissioning, and testing of both small- and large-scale material handling systems that integrate hardware and software components. In this role, you will work independently to deliver tangible results and support the successful completion of project milestones and fully operational systems.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Technology (or equivalent experience)
Minimum 2 years of experience implementing material handling systems or industrial control systems
Experience with PLC-based hardware and software (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent)
Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, etc.)
Solid understanding of PLC logic, programming, and troubleshooting
Working knowledge of industrial networking principles and computer hardware setup
Ability to prioritize work and manage multiple tasks effectively
Strong problem-solving, analytical, and research skills
Effective verbal and written communication skills
Team-oriented mindset with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
Willingness and ability to travel up to 50%, with flexibility based on project needs

Nice To Haves

Understanding of electrical controls hardware design and power distribution (480 VAC / 120 VAC / 24 VDC)
Knowledge of machine and system safety standards and design considerations
Ability to read Structured Text (writing preferred)
Experience with SQL, Visual Basic, C, C++, C#, or similar programming languages
Familiarity with industrial automation hardware such as fieldbus systems and sensors
Self-motivated and able to collaborate effectively with team members

Responsibilities

Review electrical drawings, specifications, and equipment lists to align PLC design
Review system layouts, safety layouts, and power distributions (480 VAC, 120 VAC, 24 VDC)
Review I/O layouts, network layouts, and third-party equipment mechanical and electrical interfaces
Develop detailed design documentation, including controls functional specifications and descriptions of operation
Create PLC design sheets, OEE flow maps, network topology diagrams, and interface lists
Prepare test plans at the area, zone, and section levels
Participate in internal peer reviews of PLC design elements
Write, debug, and test PLC code
Configure component-level devices and field hardware
Identify and troubleshoot network communication issues proactively and reactively
Troubleshoot electrical and controls-related issues involving conveyors, motors, drives, and associated equipment
Perform device-, zone-, area-, and system-level testing in support of commissioning
Develop and execute commissioning checklists and document test results
Commission and test PLC control panels independently
Perform integrated system-level testing in support of PLC commissioning
Conduct on-site quality checks and document system status and completion
Document progress of assigned tasks and prepare daily and weekly progress reports
Manage and execute punch list items to closure
Monitor and document subcontractor progress and performance
Provide remote customer support for existing systems
Attend Controls SCRUM meetings and collaborate with cross-functional teams
Follow all jobsite safety requirements and procedures