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Job Description
Our client is a trusted leader in PLC-based automation systems for commercial vessels on the Great Lakes and beyond. With over 20 years of combined experience, they design and build sophisticated control systems from the ground up - partnering closely with customers and major equipment suppliers to deliver complete solutions, from initial schematics through on-site commissioning. Their systems power some of the most demanding vessels on the Great Lakes. They specialize in ACCU and ACC Classed Automation, Monitoring and Control Systems (AMCS), Automatic Ballast Controls, Tank Level Indicators, Automatic Unloading Systems, Thruster Controls, Winch Drives, and Exhaust Gas Scrubber Controls - all built on non-proprietary, commercially available Allen-Bradley components that ensure long-term reliability and easy maintenance for their customers. They are a small, tight-knit team that operates with the agility of a startup and the track record of an industry leader. Every engineer has direct impact on the product and the customer relationship - there's no hiding behind a hierarchy.
THE ROLE
They're looking for a driven Controls Engineer to join our team. You'll work alongside seasoned engineers to design and deliver custom control systems - from creating electrical schematics and PLC programs to commissioning systems on-site with the customers. You'll have real responsibility from day one, with mentorship from engineers who know these systems inside and out. This role is a great fit for someone who is hands-on, self-motivated, and excited by the challenge of seeing their work come to life in the field. If you like solving hard problems, working with customers, and traveling to interesting places, you'll thrive here.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
▸ Design and develop electrical schematics, interconnection drawings, panel layouts, PLC programs, and HMI programs as part of a collaborative engineering team. ▸ Travel with projects to customer sites to perform commissioning, startup assistance, repairs, maintenance, and operator training. ▸ Provide responsive technical support to customers via phone, email, and on-site visits. ▸ Prepare field service reports, billing worksheets, and expense reports following project completion. ▸ Collaborate with customers and equipment suppliers to define project requirements and ensure successful system operation.
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
Required ▸ Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering or closely related field. ▸ Proficiency or coursework background in PLC hardware and software. ▸ Working knowledge of AutoCAD Electrical or similar schematic design tools. ▸ Solid understanding of electrical schematics, diagrams, and industrial control systems. ▸ Ability and willingness to travel regionally, nationally, and internationally. ▸ Ability to obtain a security clearance. (TWIC) Preferred ▸ Familiarity with power generation and motor controls - including voltage regulators and excitation controls on shipboard or industrial generators. ▸ Experience with marine or industrial automation systems. ▸ Hands-on experience with test equipment (oscilloscopes, multimeters, current probes). ▸ Strong problem-solving instincts and comfort working in fast-paced, customer-facing environments. ▸ Excellent written and verbal communication skills - you'll interact directly with customers. Engineers who are detail-oriented, adaptable, and take ownership of their own growth will thrive - and will be rewarded accordingly.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
We believe in sharing our success with the people who create it. Here's what we offer: ▸ Competitive base salary, commensurate with experience. ▸ Annual profit-sharing bonus - distributed at year-end based on company profitability. ▸ Additional compensation incentives discussed as part of the offer process. ▸ SEP IRA retirement contributions - up to 25% of your annual salary. They've contributed the maximum in 18 of our 20 years in business. ▸ Health insurance reimbursement benefits discussed as part of the offer process.
WHY US:
Your work matters. You'll see your designs installed and running - out in the world, on real vessels like the M/V Mark W Barker and Tug Dorothy Ann, solving real problems for real customers. They're small enough that your contributions are visible and valued, and established enough that they have the processes, the relationships, and the reputation to win complex, meaningful projects. They invest in their people for the long haul. Their profit-sharing and SEP IRA programs aren't perks - they're a philosophy.
