Technical Lead - Controls Engineering

AAON, Inc.•Redmond, OR

About The Position

The Controls Engineer IV provides technical leadership for the design, development, implementation, and continuous improvement of electrical and HVAC control systems, controls architectures, PLC programming, DDC systems, and engineering standards. The role establishes technical direction, engineering best practices, and controls design standards to support system performance, reliability, organizational objectives, and customer requirements. It collaborates across engineering disciplines and business functions to lead complex projects, influence engineering standards, and advance continuous improvement. The role also champions engineering governance, design excellence, and innovation while serving as a subject matter expert in controls technologies and methodologies. The position performs work in both office and manufacturing environments, with occasional travel for commissioning, testing, and field support. It involves potential exposure to varying temperatures, moving mechanical parts, production equipment, and moderate to high noise levels in manufacturing areas. The position is classified as safety sensitive and requires adherence to safety policies and protocols, including use of PPE where required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least 6 years of experience in electrical controls engineering or a related field.
Advanced knowledge of electrical controls architecture, sequences of operation, and controls integration.
Expertise in PLC and DDC programming.
Demonstrated ability to support technical standards and influence engineering decisions.
Ability to design, interpret, and review complex technical drawings and schematics.
Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills for complex systems.
Strong leadership, mentoring, and decision-making abilities.
Effective communication and collaboration skills across organizational levels.
Thorough understanding of NEC, UL, NFPA, ASHRAE, and other applicable standards.
Ability to communicate effectively in written and verbal formats.
Ability to manage multiple complex projects and priorities, work independently, and lead technical efforts.
Ability to sit for extended periods while performing design and programming work.
Ability to lift up to 10 lbs. occasionally.
Visual acuity, including close vision and color differentiation, for detailed system design and troubleshooting.
Ability to travel occasionally to support commissioning, testing, and field support activities.
Ability to follow safety policies and procedures and use required PPE in manufacturing areas.

Nice To Haves

Advanced system design and leadership experience.
Knowledge of the Carel platform.

Responsibilities

Serve as a senior technical resource for HVAC control systems, PLC programming, DDC controls, and automation systems.
Contribute to the technical vision and roadmap for controls engineering technologies, platforms, and standards.
Develop, maintain, and improve company-wide controls engineering standards, design practices, documentation requirements, and reusable technical assets.
Review controls architectures, sequences of operation, control strategies, and electrical control system designs for complex applications.
Evaluate and recommend deviations from established standards when technically justified.
Establish standards for PLC, HMI, DDC, networking, and system integration applications.
Lead and support root-cause analysis for significant technical issues and help implement corrective actions.
Ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, and safety regulations.
Provide technical leadership and mentorship to less experienced engineers and team members.
Develop continuous improvement initiatives related to control systems and automation processes.
Research, evaluate, and implement new technologies to enhance system capabilities and efficiency.
Mentor controls engineers through technical coaching, design feedback, and knowledge sharing.
Identify emerging technologies and recommend adoption when they improve reliability, efficiency, manufacturability, serviceability, or product performance.
Perform other duties as assigned.