Controls Engineer

The Controls Engineer will be responsible for designing, programming, and commissioning control and automation systems. Requires work with Forward's production systems and personnel to ensure on-time completion of projects. The applicant will assist with laboratory level work (prototyping/new technology vetting), troubleshooting and concept development with the production group, and in general you will work with a wide variety of internal resources to ensure projects stay on-time and within budget.

Under minimum supervision, applicant will troubleshoot various automated production equipment. You will build and maintain strong relationships with customers across many different industries and continue to learn the intricacies of plastic welding, leak/burst testing, and automation equipment.

The Controls Engineer will have strong experience with programmable controllers, robotics, vision systems, HMIs, control system design, and have hands-on troubleshooting experience. A go-getter type personality with a strong desire to succeed will help the applicant thrive and grow in this position. Forward is also open to candidates with less experience that have the willingness and drive to learn new things.

Common tasks for this position include:

1) Program and troubleshoot automated equipment using Rockwell Automation, Codesys, or Exor JMobile software

2) Develop control panel and control system schematics utilizing safety circuits, PLCs, VFDs, servo drives, robotics, automation networks, HMIs, etc. all designed in AutoCAD Electrical software

3) Create and maintain BOMs and engineering changes associated with projects and resolve job specification differences

4) Review specifications and standard practices inclusive of the internal hardwired and logic standards, general specifications, and scope of work

5) Control system upgrades of existing equipment and integration of new/existing equipment

6) Ensure work is completed in accordance with relevant codes and with proper documentation

7) Participate in continuous improvement activities to improve processes, efficiency, quality, and service

8) Work closely with vendors in identifying appropriate equipment necessary for the project

9) Work with the Forward Tech team in general to maintain project schedules, standards, and budgets

10) Provide assistance to other functional organizations (manufacturing, assembly, customer service, sales) throughout the life of a project

Experience Required:

2+ years of controls engineering experience

Familiar with common US and International Codes such as NEC, UL508A, and NFPA

Experience with equipment specifications

Experience in developing new concepts and cost-effective solutions Required Skills/Qualifications:

Competent with Rockwell software and AutoCAD Electrical

Electrical aptitude with knowledge of controls concepts, such as motion control, functional safety, etc.

Driven, energetic, self-starter type individual with go-getter attitude

Ambitious person with strong verbal and written communication skills

Willingness and ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Strong time management skills with ability to multi-task daily

Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment

Willingness to travel when necessary, <20% Preferred Skills/Qualifications:

Familiar with plastic welding, leak testing, and industrial automation

Familiar with OEM equipment concepting and budgeting

Familiar with suppliers to OEMs and the equipment offerings they provide

Familiar with Exor platform and Codesys software/programming Benefits:

Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance

401k with company match

10 Paid Holidays

PTO

Aflac offerings

Short and Long Term Disability Education and General Requirements:

Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering, 2-Year Automation Degree, or relevant experience

Valid US Driver's License

Passport not required, but ability to obtain one may be necessary for possible international travel Work Location and Hours:

Office out of Forward Technology facility in Cokato, MN

Standard work hours are 8:00AM to 5:00PM, Monday through Friday

Weeknights and weekends may be required in special cases (mainly travel related)