Sr Controls Engineer - Heat Rejection
About The Position
The Senior Controls Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for designing, integrating, and programming advanced control systems for chillers, heat rejection equipment, and related products. The role calls for expertise in control system architecture, hardware selection, and software programming, as well as experience leading cross-functional teams. The engineer drives technical strategy, mentors junior engineers, and collaborates across engineering, manufacturing, sales, and business functions to execute complex projects. The position combines strategic direction with hands-on implementation to deliver innovative, reliable, and efficient control solutions for mission-critical environments. The position is based at the Maple Grove Office in Maple Grove, Minnesota, and is full-time. The listed salary range is $100,000–$130,000 per year. Gradian is an engineering-led thermal solutions partner serving data center, mission-critical, commercial, and industrial markets. It designs and manufactures liquid cooling systems, air handling equipment, heat rejection units, and modular thermal management solutions. Gradian describes its culture as people-first and team-oriented, with work spanning design through job-site delivery. The company emphasizes shared success, energizing colleagues, and building lasting working relationships.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
- At least 3 years of experience in control systems engineering, preferably with OEM products.
- Experience designing and developing detailed electrical schematics using industry-standard software such as AutoCAD and Visio.
- Ability to develop and implement control algorithms for PC, PLC, and HMI platforms using vendor-specific software and in compliance with industry standards.
- Experience with control communication protocols, including Modbus TCP/RTU, BACnet, and Ethernet/IP.
- Ability to perform three-phase power and arc-flash calculations and determine SCCR and componentry for 480VAC enclosures, power transformers, panelboards, and switchgear.
- Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to resolve complex system issues.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to work effectively with internal teams and customers.
- Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and prioritize tasks effectively.
- Strong analytical and technical skills.
- Collaborative mindset and ability to work with cross-functional teams.
- Innovative approach to solving chiller and heat rejection challenges.
- Strategic leadership and mentorship abilities.
Nice To Haves
- Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering.
- Familiarity with chiller and heat rejection controls, data center applications, electrical codes, and safety standards.
- Background knowledge of Distech control systems.
Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and integrate control systems for chillers and heat rejection equipment, including dry coolers, adiabatic coolers, cooling towers, and condensers.
- Develop control system architectures for new machines, including selecting hardware such as HMIs, sensors, VFDs, and actuators, and programming software logic.
- Program control logic and sequences of operation, including compressor staging, fan and pump speed control, free-cooling changeover, adiabatic or spray control, and lead-lag staging, to meet customer requirements, specifications, and standards.
- Test control systems on test benches, prototype chillers, or heat rejection units; troubleshoot and debug issues.
- Collaborate with R&D, product development, sales, and customer support teams to deliver effective control solutions.
- Develop and maintain engineering documentation, including control system drawings, wiring diagrams, and system specifications.
- Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and in accordance with customer specifications.
- Maintain and improve internal processes to enhance product quality and efficiency.
- Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies and incorporate them into product designs.
- Drive technical strategy, mentor junior engineers, and coordinate with engineering, manufacturing, sales, and business functions.
Benefits
- Medical, vision, and dental plans.
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
- Group term life insurance coverage.
- HSA, FSA, and Dependent Care plans available.
- Eight paid holidays, four floating holidays, and a generous PTO policy.
- 401(k) matching.
- Company-paid events.
- Annual safety shoe allowance.
- Education assistance program.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
