Vanderlande’s Controls Engineering Department is responsible for the design, programming, commissioning, and testing of material handling systems for our customers. This is an entry-level position. As a Controls Project Engineer II, you will support the commissioning, testing, and design of both small- and large-scale material handling systems that integrate hardware and software components.
You will work under the guidance of senior and lead engineers while developing hands-on experience with PLC, SCADA, and system-level commissioning activities in a field-based environment.
Key Responsibilities
Commissioning & Testing
- Configure component-level devices and field hardware
- Perform device-level testing in support of PLC commissioning
- Perform device-level testing in support of SCADA commissioning
- Document device-level testing for PLC and SCADA commissioning using commissioning checklists
- Perform zone-level testing in support of PLC and SCADA commissioning
- Document zone-level testing for PLC and SCADA commissioning
- Perform area-level testing in support of PLC and SCADA commissioning
- Document area-level testing for PLC and SCADA commissioning, including product running tests
PLC & SCADA Development
- Write, debug, and test PLC code under the direction of a lead engineer
- Develop, test, and support SCADA/HMI programs under the direction of a lead engineer
- Support PLC control panel commissioning and testing under the direction of a lead engineer
- Support SCADA commissioning and system testing
Documentation & Project Support
- Document daily progress of assigned tasks
- Assist with the preparation and review of daily and weekly progress reports
- Write commissioning checklists with guidance from the lead engineer
- Write test plans (area, zone, and section level) with direction from the lead engineer
- Support the development of Controls Functional Specifications and Descriptions of Operation
- Perform on-site quality checks and document completion status
Site Execution & Coordination
- Manage punch lists related to software, electrical, and mechanical items
- Monitor and document subcontractor progress
- Follow all jobsite safety requirements and procedures
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Technology (or equivalent experience)
- Willingness and ability to travel up to 80% routinely
- Strong willingness to learn and develop technical skills
- Proactive mindset with a sense of ownership and accountability
- Knowledge of computer systems and Windows-based PCs
- Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
- Ability to work effectively in both team-based and autonomous environments
- Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively
- Ability to understand PLC programs and SCADA systems
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics
Desired Qualifications
- Exposure to PLC-based control systems (Siemens or Allen-Bradley)
- Familiarity with ladder logic programming
- Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000)
- Siemens (TIA Portal)
- Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, etc.)
- Exposure to installation, programming, and technical support of PLC-based hardware and software
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to research solutions
- Logical mindset with an interest in engineering logic and programming
- Basic understanding of networking principles and computer hardware setup
- Experience or coursework in SQL, Visual Basic, C, C++, C#, or similar languages
- Basic understanding of project scheduling concepts
- Ability to troubleshoot electrical issues on conveyor systems, motors, drives, and related equipment
Physical Requirements
- Ability to climb a two-story ladder
- Ability to walk one mile in 20 minutes
- Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. without difficulty
- Ability to work up to 10 hours standing, sitting, walking, and climbing stairs
- Comfortable working in office, factory, and construction environments
Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.