Manager, Controls Engineering

AAON, Inc.•Redmond, OR

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Manager, Controls Engineering leads the Controls Engineering team responsible for designing, programming, commissioning, troubleshooting, and continuously improving HVAC control systems and electrical controls architectures. The role provides technical and organizational leadership for controls engineers and leads the Controls Engineering department, manages engineering resources, establishes technical standards, and ensures successful execution of controls-related projects. The manager serves as the technical authority for HVAC controls systems, PLC programming, and DDC controls. The role works with Product Engineering, Manufacturing, Service, and R&D teams and supports manufacturing, commissioning, startup activities, and escalated field issues. It also drives automation and continuous improvement initiatives and maintains engineering standards, documentation, and training materials. The position operates in office and lab environments, with frequent visits to production floors and test facilities. Work may involve exposure to electrical systems, HVAC equipment, and prototype assemblies; PPE is used when required. Hybrid work flexibility may be available depending on project needs and company policy. Occasional travel to customer sites, suppliers, or industry events is required.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline.
Strong PLC and DDC programming experience.
Knowledge of HVAC systems and building automation systems.
Knowledge of BACnet, Modbus, and related communication protocols.
Ability to develop and review sequences of operation and electrical schematics.
Knowledge of NEC, UL, NFPA, and ASHRAE standards.
Strong troubleshooting, leadership, communication, and project management skills.
Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail.
Ability to interpret technical data and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and use a computer regularly.
Occasional lifting of equipment or components up to 25 lbs.
Ability to navigate manufacturing and lab environments safely.

Nice To Haves

8–15 years of controls engineering experience.
3–5 years of leadership experience.
Carel platform experience.

Responsibilities

Lead, manage, and develop a team of Controls Engineers and Controls Technicians.
Establish department goals, priorities, staffing plans, and performance expectations.
Conduct employee coaching, performance evaluations, and career development planning.
Support recruiting, interviewing, onboarding, and training of controls engineering personnel.
Serve as the technical authority for HVAC controls systems, PLC programming, and DDC controls.
Review and approve controls architectures, sequences of operation, and electrical designs.
Collaborate with Product Engineering, Manufacturing, Service, and R&D teams.
Support manufacturing, commissioning, startup activities, and escalated field issues.
Drive automation and continuous improvement initiatives.
Develop and maintain engineering standards, documentation, and training materials.
Manage multiple projects and communicate with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Travel occasionally to customer sites, suppliers, or industry events.