Sr Engineer Controls - Waverly, NE

Sr. Electrical Controls Engineer

The Sr. Electrical Controls Engineer will work collaboratively in a cross-discipline technical team of engineers, programmers, designers, and technicians in the development and implementation of control systems for our facilities. The candidate will be skilled in manufacturing automation design, integration, troubleshooting, engineering, programming, and consulting. The candidate will have exceptional problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently and in team environments. They will be proactive, resourceful & highly motivated with good communication skills and ability to work in a high output environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC (Programable Logic Controller) and HMI (Human Machine Interface) systems across various industrial platforms.
• Configure, install, and maintain VFDs (Variable Frequency Drive), motion controls, and associated components.
• Develop and debug control systems that integrate pneumatics, hydraulics, solenoids, weight scales, pressure transducers, level sensors, and a variety of other process and instrumentation sensors to ensure reliable operation and seamless integration with existing systems.
• Assist with the installation and startup of new equipment, incorporating advanced instrumentation and control solutions to enhance system performance and functionality.
• Work with 480VAC and 24VDC systems, ensuring compliance with safety and code requirements.
• Design and install conduit, cabling, and power distribution and controls systems.
• Provide technical support for production, maintenance, and other departments to ensure seamless operation, minimal downtime, and optimal system performance.
• Design and implement upgrades, add-ons, and enhancements to existing equipment to improve efficiency, reduce points of failure, and extend system life cycles.
• Implement automation solutions using Inductive Automation Ignition.
• Troubleshoot and optimize processes involving sensors, relays, inductive/capacitive proximity switches, and photoeyes.
• Conduct root-cause analysis for system failures and recommend long-term corrective actions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and reliability.
• Read and work from electrical schematics, P&IDs, and technical documentation.

Requirements:

• 5+ of experience using SQL databases, and scripting languages like Python, Java & Microsoft Power BI
• Implement automation solutions using Inductive Automation Ignition preferred
• Experience with AI Vision, Machine Learning, and Image Annotation preferred – willingness to learn
• Excellent troubleshooting, communication, and documentation skills
• Exposure to clean, wet, and dusty conditions is expected, requiring adaptability to different working environments.
• Reliable transportation is required, with the ability to travel between sites as needed.
• Must be able to comfortably operate forklifts, scissor lifts, and boom lifts, and work confidently from ladders as required to perform job duties.
• Must be able to work in a variety of environments, including temperatures as low as 28°F and higher, with varying levels of humidity.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Education:

Degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Software Programming or a related field (or equivalent work experience) preferred.

Experience:

• At least 4 years of control engineering experience with advanced knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA control systems preferred. Background in reading electrical control schematics & instrumentation a plus.
• Hands-on knowledge of PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Omron, or Automation Direct.
• Proficiency in CAD software for designing electrical schematics, including AutoCAD Electrical, SolidWorks, and Fusion 360.
• Familiarity with robotics and automation systems is a plus.
• Experience with motion controls (e.g., servo drives, stepper motors) a plus.
• Understanding of networking concepts (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, EtherCAT, Modbus, etc.).
• Ability to optimize and troubleshoot Inductive Automation Ignition implementations.
• Experience with supporting libraries like OpenCV, PyTorch, TensorFlow, YOLO, and related frameworks for computer vision and predictive analytics a plus.
• Proficiency in control panel design, including component selection and layout.
• Familiarity with safety standards for industrial environments, including NFPA 70E and OSHA compliance.

Communication Skills: Written and verbal communication skills

Travel: Amount of travel will be determined by individual project requirements between the plants in Waverly and Tecumseh, and the farms. Around 120-mile round trip

*Sponsorship is not offered for this position, and applicant must reside in the United States.

Highly recommended to include a resume in a PDF or Word Document format.