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Controls Engineer

KnackHook, LLCPeoria, IL🇺🇸United StatesPosted Sep 24, 2026

Why This Role Stands Out

This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience with heavy machinery validation and contribute to cutting-edge engineering projects. You'll thrive here if you're a detail-oriented engineer eager to work directly with complex systems in a dynamic, real-world testing environment. Apply today to accelerate your career in a challenging and rewarding position.

Quick Overview

Seniority
Mid Senior
Work mode
On Site
Location
Peoria, IL, United States
Posted
Yesterday

Job Description

Test & Validation Controls Engineer – Heavy Machinery
 
Location: Peoria, IL (Onsite – Proving Grounds / Testing Facility)
 
Duration: 20 Months (Full-Time, W2,)
 
Shift: 1st Shift (7:00 AM – 4:00 PM) or 2nd Shift (3:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
 
About the Role:
Are you an engineer who prefers working with hands-on machinery rather than sitting at a desk all day? We are seeking an energetic, detail-oriented Test & Validation Controls Engineer to support multi-platform heavy machinery field validation programs.
In this role, you will be the operational backbone of data acquisition and system readiness: flashing software to prototype machines, monitoring real-time vehicle network communications (Ethernet & CAN), and executing critical test sequences in real-world outdoor proving ground conditions.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Plan and execute machine validation and data-collection test runs alongside cross-functional systems and controls teams.
  • Perform software flashing, ECU updates, and parameter configuration on prototype machines prior to test cycles.
  • Connect, configure, and troubleshoot data acquisition systems, logging telemetry from machine sensors, controllers, and hydraulic systems.
  • Diagnose machine network communications, isolating bus faults or dropping packets across Ethernet and CAN networks.
  • Ensure machine field-readiness through physical checkouts, sensory harness inspections, and basic mechanical/electrical troubleshooting.
  • Work in an active testing environment (indoor bays and outdoor proving grounds in all weather conditions).
Qualifications:
  • Education: B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or Manufacturing Engineering.
  • Experience: 0–2 years of professional, co-op, or intensive collegiate project experience (e.g., Formula SAE, Baja SAE) involving machine testing, instrumentation, or controls.
  • Core Technical Knowledge: Practical understanding of network protocols—specifically Ethernet and CAN (Controller Area Network) architectures.
  • Troubleshooting Aptitude: Demonstrated ability to trace electromechanical or software issues systematically using data logs and diagnostics tools.
  • Mindset: High organizational capacity, comfort working on/around large machinery in outdoor weather conditions, and strong verbal communication skills.
Bonus Qualifications:
  • Experience using Linux command-line utilities.
  • Familiarity with CAN diagnostic tools (CANalyzer, CANoe, ValueCAN, or similar).
  • Prior exposure to off-highway, agricultural, or automotive testing grounds.

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