Job Title: Controls Engineer - Switchgear Design
Location: Hackettstown, NJ
Department: Engineering
Reports To: Engineering Manager
Overview:
A growing power systems engineering firm is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join their team in Hackettstown, NJ. This role plays a critical part in designing and implementing control systems for low and medium voltage switchgear and power distribution applications. The ideal candidate will bring a deep understanding of control system design, PLC programming, and protective relaying, with a strong focus on quality, reliability, and safety.
This position involves close collaboration with internal engineering teams, field technicians, and external clients to deliver comprehensive, code-compliant solutions on time and within scope.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design control systems for low and medium voltage switchgear (480V to 38kV).
- Review technical specifications and develop project take-offs.
- Create electrical drawings, submittals, and sequences of operation.
- Program and configure PLCs (Siemens & Fanuc) for automation systems.
- Develop SCADA and HMI interfaces using Siemens WinCC and Wonderware InTouch.
- Configure, test, and troubleshoot protection relays, power meters, and circuit breakers.
- Conduct diagnostics and maintenance on PLCs, HMIs, multifunction relays, and other control components.
- Develop and maintain project schedules.
- Provide training on control system operation for internal staff and clients.
- Support multiple office locations and assist in daily operations.
- Ensure adherence to OSHA and NFPA 70E safety standards.
- Follow customer site-specific safety protocols and procedures.
- Maintain a professional and collaborative attitude with coworkers and clients.
Qualifications:
Education & Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent technical background.
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in power distribution, control system engineering, and switchgear design.
- Proven experience with PLC programming, relay protection, and SCADA/HMI systems.
- Familiarity with construction site safety practices and procedures.
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong background in designing and integrating switchgear control systems.
- Proficiency with Siemens and Fanuc PLCs.
- Experience developing SCADA/HMI systems (Siemens WinCC, Wonderware InTouch).
- Solid understanding of electrical schematics, industrial networking, and communication protocols.
- Skilled in working independently while managing multiple projects.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Leadership qualities with a proactive approach to project execution.
- Familiarity with NetSuite ERP system is a plus.
- Ability to pass background checks and comply with a drug-free workplace policy.
Travel Requirements:
- Approximately 10% travel to customer sites and manufacturer facilities.
- Occasional weekend and after-hours work as needed.
- On-call availability required at times.
- Extended travel arrangements provided when necessary.
- Travel and meal expenses covered.