Electrical Controls Engineer
Location: Sterling, MA
About the Role
This organisation is a growing automation systems integrator specialising in custom machine building and systems integration. They are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join their team in Sterling, MA. This is a high-impact role suited to a seasoned professional who thrives in a project-driven environment, someone capable of owning electrical design and programming from concept through commissioning, while confidently managing schedules, budgets, and vendor relationships.
Key Responsibilities
- Programming Proficiency: Program and configure PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) systems, as well as safety controllers, motion control, and vision systems using industry-standard software tools including Allen-Bradley, Cognex, Keyence, SICK, Siemens, Bosch, Omron, CoDeSys, and Mitsubishi.
- Electrical Design: Develop overall system architecture, industrial electrical schematics, and electrical control panel layouts based on industry standard best practices, utilising 2D CAD systems.
- System Integration: Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to integrate control systems into existing manufacturing processes, ensuring efficiency and reliability.
- System Analysis and Troubleshooting: Perform system analysis, testing, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal operation and performance of automation systems.
- Technical Support and Training: Provide technical support and training to engineers, technicians, and customers to ensure effective system operation.
- Compliance and Safety: Ensure all projects meet regulatory standards and adhere to strict safety requirements.
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline required.
- Experience: Minimum of 3 years of electrical engineering experience, ideally within an industrial or manufacturing environment. Broad industry exposure or experience with automation equipment builders is highly advantageous.
- Technical Proficiency: Strong PLC programming and configuration experience, particularly with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, CoDeSys, or Mitsubishi platforms. Familiarity with motion control, vision systems, sensor integration, and data acquisition systems is required.
- BOM & Documentation: Proven ability to manage structured bills of materials (BOMs) and electrical drawing packages throughout the full project lifecycle.
- Vendor & Procurement Knowledge: Experience quoting custom fabricated and machined parts, evaluating vendor quotes, and managing supplier relationships.
- Project Execution: Demonstrated ability to deliver projects on time and within budget in a project-based or job-shop environment. Familiarity with change order processes is beneficial.
- Small-Shop Mindset: Comfortable operating in a lean, fast-paced environment where engineers are self-directed, take ownership, and contribute across multiple areas. Prior experience with a small integrator or custom machine builder is strongly preferred.
- Communication: Strong communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with internal teams, customers, and vendors.
Platform Partnership
The organisation is part of a broader automation platform backed by a private equity group, built to serve North American manufacturers with advanced automation and integration solutions. As part of this platform, the team has access to expanded resources and sister-company capabilities, including panel fabrication, SCADA/MES, machine vision, and robotics. This enables engineers to take on technically complex projects across industries such as food & beverage, life sciences, aerospace & defence, and more.
Why Join
Engineers in this organisation are empowered to take ownership of their work, designing systems that solve real-world challenges and seeing projects through from concept to completion. The company offers:
- Competitive salary with annual bonus potential and opportunities for career growth
- A collaborative, low-bureaucracy environment where individual contributions matter
- Exposure to diverse industries and machine types, ensuring varied and engaging work
- A team culture focused on craftsmanship, accountability, and continuous improvement
Core Values
- Champion the Customer: Build partnerships, do what's right, and succeed together
- Own It: Take accountability, solve problems, and drive results
- Deliver Excellence: Demonstrate expertise, pride, and attention to detail
- Spark Innovation: Stay curious, embrace challenges, and continuously improve
- Stronger Together: Foster respect, support, and teamwork
