Job Description: The Controls Engineering Technician is responsible for the complete controls engineering lifecycle of custom automation equipment, robotic work cells, special purpose machinery, and turnkey manufacturing systems. This includes controls system design, PLC and HMI programming, robotics integration, commissioning, machine startup, and customer support.
Working closely with Project Managers, Mechanical & Controls Designers, Manufacturing, Assembly, and Customers, the successful candidate will develop innovative, reliable, and cost-effective automation solutions while ensuring projects meet customer specifications, industry standards, schedules, and budget objectives.
Every project is unique, providing the opportunity to work on a wide variety of advanced manufacturing systems for leading customers across North America.
Reporting to: Controls Engineering Supervisor – Automation Division
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
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Design and develop electrical control systems for custom automation equipment and robotic manufacturing cells.
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Develop PLC programs primarily using Allen-Bradley Studio 5000 (ControlLogix/CompactLogix), Siemens (TIA Portal), and Omron (Sysmac Studio)
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Develop HMI applications using FactoryTalk View, Siemens WinCC, Omron, and similar platforms.
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Configure and integrate servo systems, VFDs, distributed I/O, safety devices, and industrial communication networks.
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Integrate robotic systems including FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa, Universal Robots, or similar platforms.
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Integrate machine vision systems, barcode readers, leak testing equipment, and other intelligent automation devices.
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Perform machine commissioning including power-up, I/O verification, debugging, optimization, and production validation.
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Participate in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), equipment installation, and customer launch activities.
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Troubleshoot electrical, controls, robotics, networking, and automation issues during machine build, installation, and production startup.
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Work closely with Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, Assembly, and Project Management to deliver high-quality automation systems.
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Mentor junior Controls Engineers and Controls Technicians while promoting engineering standards and continuous improvement.
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Maintain complete software backups, documentation, and revision control throughout each project.
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Occasional travel throughout Canada, the United States, and Mexico as required to support customer installations and service activities.
Qualifications:
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Degree or Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Engineering Technology, Automation Engineering, or equivalent experience.
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3 + years of controls engineering experience in custom automation, special machine building, or automated manufacturing.
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Expert knowledge of Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLC programming.
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Experience developing HMI applications and industrial automation software.
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Strong understanding of industrial communication networks including EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Profibus, IO-Link, and related protocols.
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Experience with machine commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting.
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Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and control drawings.
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Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, communication, and organizational skills.
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Ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining a high level of quality.
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Valid driver's license, passport, and ability to travel as required.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with one or more of the following is considered a strong asset:
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Industrial robotics (FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Kawasaki, Universal Robots)
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Machine vision systems (Cognex, Keyence)
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Motion control and servo systems
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AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN
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Automotive OEM or Tier 1 manufacturing
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Automated assembly systems
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Leak testing, vision inspection, ultrasonic welding, fastening systems, material handling, or flexible manufacturing systems
Why Join Select Tool?
At Select Tool, no two projects are alike. Our engineers are involved from concept through customer launch, working with advanced robotics, vision systems, precision assembly equipment, and automated manufacturing technologies for leading manufacturers throughout North America.
We believe in investing in our employees by providing opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and career advancement in a collaborative environment where innovation, quality, and teamwork drive our success. If you are passionate about automation and enjoy solving challenging engineering problems, we invite you to become part of our team.
Availability/Shifts
Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
Languages
English
