Controls Engineer

Position: Controls Engineer
Locations: Decatur, IL | Cleveland, OH | North Haven, CT

Experience: 10+ Years
Employment Type: Contract

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer with strong expertise in Rockwell Automation PLC platforms and Cognex Vision Systems to support the design, development, commissioning, and optimization of industrial automation solutions. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in machine controls, vision inspection systems, HMI/SCADA development, and plant-floor automation projects within manufacturing environments.

Key Responsibilities

· Design, develop, and implement control systems using Rockwell Automation PLCs (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, Studio 5000/RSLogix).

· Program, troubleshoot, and optimize industrial automation systems and machine controls.

· Configure and integrate Cognex Vision Systems (In-Sight, VisionPro, DataMan) for inspection, guidance, identification, and quality control applications.

· Develop and maintain HMI applications using FactoryTalk View SE/ME.

· Support commissioning, startup, FAT/SAT, and production ramp-up activities.

· Perform root cause analysis and troubleshoot PLC, HMI, vision, networking, and field device issues.

· Integrate industrial communication protocols including EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, DeviceNet, and OPC.

· Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and quality teams to deliver automation projects.

· Create and maintain electrical schematics, control narratives, functional specifications, and technical documentation.

· Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance equipment reliability, uptime, and productivity.

· Provide technical support and mentoring to junior engineers and maintenance personnel.

Required Qualifications

· Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field.

· 10+ years of experience in industrial automation and controls engineering.

· Strong hands-on experience with:

o Rockwell ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs

o Studio 5000 / RSLogix Programming

o FactoryTalk View HMI/SCADA

o Cognex In-Sight and VisionPro Systems

o Industrial networking and communication protocols

· Experience in machine commissioning, startup support, and troubleshooting.

· Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and control drawings.

Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.