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PLC Controls Engineer

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durham, nc • Posted 4 days ago
Onsite Full Time Architecture and Engineering Occupations
Title: PLC Controls Engineer
Duration: Aug 6, 2026 - Aug 5, 2027
Location: Durham, NC 27703
Schedule: 1st shift
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Must Have
  • PLC Development - Autocad - Beckhoff - Structured Text

Description
Position Summary
  • We are seeking a highly motivated PLC Controls Engineer with 5+ years of industrial automation and PLC programming experience.
  • The successful candidate will be responsible for the design, development, troubleshooting, and enhancement of control systems, electrical hardware, and electromechanical equipment throughout the product lifecycle.
  • This role requires strong technical expertise, independent decision-making, and the ability to collaborate across multiple disciplines to solve complex engineering challenges.
  • The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in PLC software development using Beckhoff TwinCAT, Structured Text programming (IEC 61131-3), control panel design, system integration, hardware troubleshooting, and machine automation.
  • Experience with AutoCAD Electrical and/or EPLAN is highly desirable.
  • This position offers the opportunity to work on advanced automation systems in a collaborative engineering environment. Depending on performance and business needs, this position is expected to transition into a permanent full-time role.

Primary Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, commission, and maintain PLC software using Beckhoff TwinCAT .
  • Develop control algorithms and machine sequences using Structured Text (ST) programming.
  • Integrate PLCs with HMIs, motion control systems, safety systems, sensors, and industrial networks.
  • Troubleshoot electrical, controls, and software-related issues in laboratory and production environments.
  • Support system commissioning, startup activities, validation, and field troubleshooting.
  • Develop and maintain electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and engineering documentation.
  • Design and review control panels, power distribution systems, and electrical assemblies.
  • Collaborate with Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, Manufacturing, and Software Engineering teams.
  • Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for field and production issues.
  • Participate in design reviews, risk assessments, and product lifecycle activities.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives related to machine performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians when required.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering , Controls Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • Minimum of 5 years of professional experience developing PLC-based control systems.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience using Beckhoff TwinCAT PLC development environment .
  • Strong proficiency in Structured Text (IEC 61131-3) programming.
  • Experience commissioning and debugging industrial automation equipment.
  • Strong experience with:
    • PLC software development and troubleshooting
    • Beckhoff hardware and EtherCAT-based systems
    • Motion control and servo drive integration
    • Control panel design
    • Power distribution and industrial electrical systems
    • Hardware integration and system testing
    • Product troubleshooting and root cause analysis
  • Experience creating, reviewing, and maintaining engineering documentation and technical specifications.
  • Strong understanding of design verification, validation, and product lifecycle processes.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to prioritize work, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with AutoCAD Electrical and/or EPLAN .
  • Experience with machine safety systems and safety PLCs.
  • Experience integrating:
    • Servo motors and motion control systems
    • Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
    • Vision systems
    • Industrial robotics
    • Barcode/RFID systems
  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols including:
    • EtherCAT
    • Ethernet/IP
    • Modbus TCP
    • OPC-UA
  • Experience supporting manufacturing, automation, medical device, pharmaceutical, or highly regulated industries.
  • Knowledge of UL508A, NFPA 79, Client, and other relevant industrial controls standards.
  • Experience validating automated equipment and supporting qualification activities.

Key Competencies
  • PLC Programming (Beckhoff TwinCAT)
  • Structured Text Development
  • Control System Architecture
  • Industrial Automation
  • Motion Control
  • Electrical Design
  • System Integration
  • Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis
  • Technical Documentation
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration
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