Applied Controls, a SunSource company, is a high-tech automation distributor and solutions provider. We educate and support local manufacturers in implementing emerging technologies to reduce costs, increase productivity and improve safety. Our offerings range from industrial computers and software, Robotics, Machine Vision, and Motion Control. Our goal is to increase productivity to keep manufacturing in America successful and prosperous. www.appliedc.com
Applied Controls is seeking an Electrical Design & Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, integration, and commissioning of custom automation, robotics, vision, and industrial control systems. This position is responsible for electrical system design, controls programming, hardware selection, documentation development, and startup support throughout the project lifecycle.
The ideal candidate combines strong electrical design skills with hands-on controls engineering experience and is capable of taking ownership of both electrical and controls deliverables for automation projects.
Primary Responsibilities
Electrical Design & Documentation
Develop electrical schematics, panel layouts, wiring diagrams, and documentation packages using EPLAN.
Design industrial control systems including PLCs, HMIs, motion control systems, robotic systems, machine safety systems, and industrial networking.
Create electrical bills of materials (BOMs) and support component procurement activities.
Select and specify electrical components.
Generate manufacturing documentation packages for panel fabrication, machine assembly, installation, and customer deliverables.
Maintain and improve company electrical design standards and best practices.
Controls Engineering
Develop PLC, HMI, and motion control software for custom automation systems.
Configure industrial communication networks including Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP, and other industrial protocols.
Support robotic integration and communication with control systems.
Troubleshoot software, communication, and hardware-related issues during system development and deployment.
Develop reusable software standards and programming methodologies.
Project Execution
Participate in project kickoff meetings and technical design reviews.
Collaborate with mechanical engineers, project managers, programmers, technicians, and customers throughout project execution.
Review customer specifications and ensure compliance with project requirements.
Support technical evaluations during quoting and proposal development.
Manufacturing, Testing & Commissioning
Support panel fabrication and machine assembly teams during system build.
Perform electrical checkout and system verification.
Lead or support FAT, SAT, startup, and commissioning activities.
Troubleshoot and resolve issues during installation and startup.
Safety & Compliance
Design machine safety systems in accordance with applicable standards and customer requirements.
Support risk assessments and machine safety reviews.
Ensure compliance with NFPA 79, ANSI/RIA standards, OSHA requirements, and customer-specific standards.
Required Qualifications
Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field.
3+ years of experience designing and programming industrial automation systems.
Experience creating electrical schematics and documentation using EPLAN.
Experience programming PLC and HMI systems.
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Siemens TIA Portal, S7 PLCs, WinCC HMIs, Profinet Networks, and Siemens Motion Control.
Experience with Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, CompactLogix, FactoryTalk View, and Ethernet/IP Networks.
Experience integrating robotic systems.
Experience with machine vision systems.
Experience with machine safety design and implementation.
Familiarity with Beckhoff, Omron, Mitsubishi, or other automation platforms.
Experience supporting customer startups and commissioning activities.
Desired Characteristics
Takes ownership of projects from concept through commissioning.
Comfortable working independently while collaborating across disciplines.
Strong attention to detail and documentation quality.
Customer-focused with a commitment to delivering reliable automation solutions.
Hands-on mindset with willingness to assist in troubleshooting and startup activities.
Continuously seeks opportunities to improve processes, standards, and technical capabilities.
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. If you are an individual with a disability and require an accommodation to complete the application process, please contact recruiting@sunsrce.com to request reasonable accommodation. Only requests for accommodation in the application process will be returned from this email address. This employer uses E-Verify. Please click here for additional information. (For Illinois E-Verify information click here, aquí).
