Senior Controls Engineer and PLC Programmer

Company: DOUGLAS MACHINES CORP
Location: Clearwater
Posted on: March 12, 2025

Job Description:

Objectives
The Senior Controls Engineer / PLC Programmer/ reports to the Director of Engineering and is an integral member of the multidisciplinary engineering team. This position will be primarily responsible for programming automated machinery using programmable logic controllers (PLC). The Senior Controls Engineer / PLC Programmer will review and edit design schematics, write, and install programs, and test the efficacy of the installed program. While working with other engineers, shop technicians, and service technicians in a team environment, this role is key to fostering a creative and cohesive workplace, allowing for new ideas while embracing speed and quality in work produced.

Key Activities
Electrical
--- Create, develop, test, and update PLC programs (Structured Text, Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram) and HMI screens (Allen Bradley, Schneider, Beijer, Beckhoff)
--- Manage projects from concept design, through testing, to customer acceptance, providing hands-on support throughout the process
--- Debug software and troubleshoot systems during build and testing
--- Documenting processes and maintaining logs for software changes and system sequence of operations
--- Implement new, revised, and/or updated control, monitoring, and data acquisition strategies for the facility
--- Participate in the production of process control software consisting of PLC code, HMI graphics, and databases for improvement projects and support/resolve day-to-day production issues
--- Analyze and respond to process control and software issues to minimize the impact on operations
--- Determine machine automation test criteria before the final installation
--- Support service technicians over the phone to analyze and troubleshoot code for existing field machines. Willing to travel up to 5%.
--- Develop and improve machine and process Standard Operating Procedures (S.O.P.s)
--- Check the quality of assemblers and technicians' work and respond to inquiries during assembly
--- Work with Sales Engineers to review customer requirements and provide input with quote preparation as required
--- Develop and design programs, for new orders, as improvements to existing designs, or as part of new product development
--- Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose problems with malfunctioning equipment in final assembly/testing or the field using proper tools and testing apparatus

General
--- Comply with the company safety procedures
--- Live the company culture of integrity and professional competence
--- Provide timely and detailed status updates
--- Ensure quality standards are maintained in a highly regulated, process-driven environment

Minimum Experience/Education Qualifications
--- Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Programming, Industrial Automation, or a related field is required
--- 5 to 7 years of industry work experience
--- Must be proficient in programming Allen Bradley PLC's and HMI's
o FactoryTalk
o Studio 5000
o Connected Components Workbench
--- Must be proficient in programming Schneider PLC's, Smart Relays, HMI's
o EcoStruxure Machine Expert
o Vijeo Designer
o Zelio Soft
--- Knowledge of VFDs, pneumatics, analog pressure and temperature sensors, 4-20mA controls, relays, contactors, Ethernet/IP and Modbus networks
--- Ability to integrate PLC systems with other hardware and software, including sensors, actuators, and other industrial devices
--- Strong skills in diagnosing and troubleshooting electrical and mechanical systems using PLC
--- Ability to read electrical schematics, Process & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&ID's) and Process Flow Diagrams (PFD's)
--- Proficient in Design/Drafting Tools, AutoCAD Electrical
--- Familiar with Industry Standards (UL, NEC, NFPA)
--- Analyze electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic drawings
--- Strong understanding of electrical theory and logic control
--- Understanding of fluid transfer systems and pumps
--- Knowledge of fluid power and pneumatic systems
General Skills/Qualifications:
--- High level of precision and attention to detail to ensure the safety and functionality of PLC systems
--- MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and general computer literacy
--- Excellent written and oral communication skills
--- Must be a self-starter, team player, work well with others, and have a positive attitude
--- Must be a creative thinker, results-oriented, focused, and attentive to detail and accuracy
--- Must have ability to prioritize, multi-task and meet deadlines
--- Sharp, quick, dedicated and innovative problem solver
--- Core values and continuous self-improvement
--- Must be organized, detail oriented, and able to think designs through completely
--- UL 508a MTR a plusCompensation details: 91000-115000 Yearly SalaryPI0a1840aa6525-25660-37129383

Keywords: DOUGLAS MACHINES CORP, Clearwater , Senior Controls Engineer and PLC Programmer, Engineering , Clearwater, Florida