Controls System Engineer

Saronic Saronic · Defense · New Orleans, LA · Production

Controls Systems Engineer responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining automated control systems using PLC, DCS, and SCADA technologies for industrial processes and machinery. The role involves system modeling, simulation, testing, troubleshooting, documentation, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

What you'd actually do

  1. Design, program, and commission PLC, DCS, and SCADA systems for industrial processes and machinery
  2. Develop and maintain control system architecture, including hardware selection, software logic, and HMI development
  3. Perform system modeling, simulation, and analysis to optimize control strategies (PID tuning, feedforward, etc.)
  4. Conduct Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) for new and modified systems
  5. Troubleshoot and resolve control system faults, minimizing downtime and production impact

Skills

Required

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
  • 3+ years of experience in controls systems design and implementation
  • Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider Electric) using IEC 61131-3 languages
  • Experience with SCADA/HMI platforms (e.g., Ignition, FactoryTalk, WinCC)
  • Solid understanding of industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profibus, OPC-UA)
  • Familiarity with instrumentation, field devices, and process control fundamentals
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Nice to have

  • Experience with distributed control systems (DCS) such as DeltaV, Honeywell Experion, or ABB 800xA
  • Knowledge of functional safety standards and SIL verification
  • Exposure to Industry 4.0 concepts, IIoT integration, or edge computing
  • PE license or ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) certification
  • Experience in Oil & Gas / Manufacturing / Maritime

What the JD emphasized

  • safety standards (IEC 61511, IEC 62443, NFPA 79, etc.)
  • hazard reviews (HAZOP, SIL assessments)
  • safety instrumented functions (SIF)