Electrical Controls Engineer
Electrical Controls Engineer
Location: Sterling, MA
About the Role
This organisation is a growing automation systems integrator specialising in custom machine building and systems integration. They are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join their team in Sterling, MA. This is a high-impact role suited to a seasoned professional who thrives in a project-driven environment, someone capable of owning electrical design and programming from concept through commissioning, while confidently managing schedules, budgets, and vendor relationships.
Key Responsibilities
- Programming Proficiency: Program and configure PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) systems, as well as safety controllers, motion control, and vision systems using industry-standard software tools including Allen-Bradley, Cognex, Keyence, SICK, Siemens, Bosch, Omron, CoDeSys, and Mitsubishi.
- Electrical Design: Develop overall system architecture, industrial electrical schematics, and electrical control panel layouts based on industry standard best practices, utilising 2D CAD systems.
- System Integration: Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to integrate control systems into existing manufacturing processes, ensuring efficiency and reliability.
- System Analysis and Troubleshooting: Perform system analysis, testing, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal operation and performance of automation systems.
- Technical Support and Training: Provide technical support and training to engineers, technicians, and customers to ensure effective system operation.
- Compliance and Safety: Ensure all projects meet regulatory standards and adhere to strict safety requirements.
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline required.
- Experience: Minimum of 3 years of electrical engineering experience, ideally within an industrial or manufacturing environment. Broad industry exposure or experience with automation equipment builders is highly advantageous.
- Technical Proficiency: Strong PLC programming and configuration experience, particularly with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, CoDeSys, or Mitsubishi platforms. Familiarity with motion control, vision systems, sensor integration, and data acquisition systems is required.
- BOM & Documentation: Proven ability to manage structured bills of materials (BOMs) and electrical drawing packages throughout the full project lifecycle.
- Vendor & Procurement Knowledge: Experience quoting custom fabricated and machined parts, evaluating vendor quotes, and managing supplier relationships.
- Project Execution: Demonstrated ability to deliver projects on time and within budget in a project-based or job-shop environment. Familiarity with change order processes is beneficial.
- Small-Shop Mindset: Comfortable operating in a lean, fast-paced environment where engineers are self-directed, take ownership, and contribute across multiple areas. Prior experience with a small integrator or custom machine builder is strongly preferred.
- Communication: Strong communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with internal teams, customers, and vendors.
Platform Partnership
The organisation is part of a broader automation platform backed by a private equity group, built to serve North American manufacturers with advanced automation and integration solutions. As part of this platform, the team has access to expanded resources and sister-company capabilities, including panel fabrication, SCADA/MES, machine vision, and robotics. This enables engineers to take on technically complex projects across industries such as food & beverage, life sciences, aerospace & defence, and more.
Why Join
Engineers in this organisation are empowered to take ownership of their work, designing systems that solve real-world challenges and seeing projects through from concept to completion. The company offers:
- Competitive salary with annual bonus potential and opportunities for career growth
- A collaborative, low-bureaucracy environment where individual contributions matter
- Exposure to diverse industries and machine types, ensuring varied and engaging work
- A team culture focused on craftsmanship, accountability, and continuous improvement
Core Values
- Champion the Customer: Build partnerships, do what's right, and succeed together
- Own It: Take accountability, solve problems, and drive results
- Deliver Excellence: Demonstrate expertise, pride, and attention to detail
- Spark Innovation: Stay curious, embrace challenges, and continuously improve
- Stronger Together: Foster respect, support, and teamwork
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your CV and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organisations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.