Job Title: Controls Engineer
Location: Wilmington, MA
Duration: Perm Role
Job Summary:
We are seeking a skilled and self-motivated Controls Engineer to join our team and support engineering projects across a variety of Life Sciences projects. This position involves the development and implementation of complex control systems, including PLC/DCS/HMI/SCADA programming, database/API development, and instrumentation/control panel design. The ideal candidate will bring a diverse engineering background, strong technical knowledge, and the ability to both collaborate within a team and independently lead technical work.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and implement control systems architecture for industrial processes and machinery
- Program PLCs, DCS, RTUs, and HMIs/SCADA systems
- Develop and manage databases and data historian systems for system data archiving and visualization
- Develop APIs using Python/FastAPI to integrate and communicate with control systems
- Create and maintain engineering documentation including schematics and system design documents
- Support electrical panel design and instrumentation specification
- Assist with system check-out, commissioning, and on-site troubleshooting
- Utilize industrial networking protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus, etc.) for system integration
- May lead technical teams or manage smaller projects, mentoring junior engineers/technicians
- Collaborate directly with clients to ensure project requirements and expectations are met
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Control Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Computer Science
- Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in industrial automation and controls
- Proficient in PLC programming (Rockwell, Siemens, Modicon)
- Skilled in HMI/SCADA platforms (Ignition, Wonderware/Aveva, Rockwell, GE, Siemens)
- Experience with DCS systems such as Emerson DeltaV or similar platforms
- Proficient with Python and FastAPI for backend development
- Familiarity with S88 Batch processing and automation protocols (HART, Fieldbus, Modbus, etc.)
- Knowledge of SQL databases, .NET, VBA, and structured programming environments
- Understanding of cGMP, 21 CFR Part 11, GAMP5, and SDLC methodologies
- Ability to read and design electrical schematics and power/control panels under 480VAC
- Strong leadership, communication, and client-facing skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with life sciences, building automation, or similar regulated industries
- Familiarity with industrial networking (fiber, wired, wireless)
- Project management experience on small-to-mid scale engineering projects
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Work settings include standard office, on-site office, and industrial plant environments
- Regular use of computers, printers, fax machines, and phones
- Physical requirements include visual acuity, color perception, dexterity, lifting, climbing, and operating machinery