Controls Engineer at IDEAL Industries, Inc. – Sycamore, Illinois

IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. has built a reputation for over a century by crafting iconic tools and practical technology required in aerospace, data communications, electrical, wire processing and construction. The global family of IDEAL brands includes IDEAL Electrical, Anderson Power, and Enatel.

A vibrant and dynamic company, IDEAL is best known for our wire connectors, the gold standard for making electrical connections around the world. Nearly every commercial jet is assembled using IDEAL wire strippers and, as part of the critical equipment on NASA missions, our tools even help NASA astronauts fly to the moon. Most important, our products benefit skilled tradespeople, who reach for IDEAL tools every day.

IDEAL is propelled by the concept of Building an IDEAL World. Our family-run business is committed to building ideal relationships with customers, employees, and communities by crafting some of our industry’s most innovative and trusted tools.

The Controls Engineer has a strong focus on Rockwell software and hardware. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in designing, building, implementing, and troubleshooting control systems using Rockwell Automation products. This role requires expertise in Rockwell PLCs, HMIs, motion control and related technologies, with a deep understanding of control theory, automation, fluid power systems, and process optimization.

Essential Job Functions:

• Design, develop, and implement control systems using Rockwell Automation products, including Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMIs, and related hardware.
• Conduct hands-on troubleshooting and maintenance of Rockwell control systems to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
• Develop and program Rockwell PLCs using RSLogix 500/5000 and Studio 5000 and configure FactoryTalk View for HMI development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, to integrate control systems with other system components.
• Create and maintain detailed documentation, including schematics, wiring diagrams, and software code.
• Specify, design, construct, and install electrical panels and associated machine wiring.
• Specify PLCs, sensors, HMIs, data acquisition, vision systems, robotics and all applicable control components for simple and complex automation equipment.
• Conduct testing, commissioning, and validation of control systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards and Rockwell best practices while adhering to IDEAL’s plant safety protocols.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Provide technical support and training to production and maintenance personnel on Rockwell systems.
• Continuously improve control systems and processes through data analysis, system monitoring, and feedback from stakeholders.
• Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices in controls engineering, specifically focusing on advancements in Rockwell software and hardware.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Proven experience in control systems design, implementation, and troubleshooting, with a strong emphasis on Rockwell Automation products.
• Proficiency in programming Rockwell PLCs and configuring HMIs using Rockwell software tools such as RSLogix 500/5000/Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk View.
• Strong knowledge of control theory & design, safety, automation systems, and process optimization.
• Experience with legacy Rockwell software, including RSLogix 500, PanelBuilder32, and similar tools.
• Demonstrated proficiency in electrical documentation CAD software (Solidworks/Autocad electrical)
• Fanuc & Epson robot integration & debug experience is a plus
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and safety regulations, with specific experience in Rockwell applications.
• Hands-on industrial electrical and infrastructure experience
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to successfully manage multiple activities/initiatives at one time.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a related field.
• 8 years of relevant experience is required in leu of a degree.

The expected salary for this position is between $86,075.00 and $115,771.00. This range represents a good faith estimate for the position and actual compensation will be based on numerous factors including knowledge, location, skills, training and experience.

IDEAL employees enjoy a wide range of valuable benefits including:

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Education Reimbursement
• Wellness Programs
• 401k with Company Match
• Cash Balance Pension Plan

IDEAL values rest, personal time and community involvement facilitating these through several paid time off programs including:

• Vacation
• Personal Days
• Volunteer Time
• Holidays
• Parental Leave

IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. is proud to be one of Newsweek’s Global Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces and an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. We know when you honor relationships, success for all will follow. To learn more about us, visit www.idealindustries.com

Please review IDEAL Industries’ Privacy Notices here: https://idealindustries.com/content/dam/corporate/legal/IDEAL-Applicant-and-Candidate-Privacy+CA-Notice-2023.pdf. By continuing, you acknowledge reviewing and understanding these notices.