Remote and Traveling Controls Engineer - Dairy Plant
Position Overview:
We are seeking a Remote and Traveling Controls Engineer to design, program, integrate, and commission industrial control systems for dairy applications. The role is responsible for delivering reliable, efficient automation solutions from system design and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) to programming, troubleshooting, and start-up/commissioning. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, vendors, and operations to ensure systems meet process, safety, and quality requirements. Experience with Allen-Bradley and Rockwell platforms and controls integration is essential; food and beverage experience is a strong plus.
Key Responsibilities:
Design, develop, and implement control system architectures for dairy processing equipment, including PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems. Program Allen-Bradley/Rockwell PLCs (e.g., RSLogix, Studio 5000) and configure HMI/SCADA environments to meet process requirements. Translate process requirements into system specifications, control narratives, and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).Lead controls integration activities, coordinating with mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and process teams to ensure seamless system operation. Perform factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), and manage start-up and commissioning activities to validate system performance. Troubleshoot control systems and instrumentation issues during design, installation, and production to minimize downtime and optimize performance. Collaborate with vendors and contractors to review control logic, I/O lists, network architecture, and cable schedules. Develop and maintain technical documentation, including control drawings, wiring diagrams, software baselines, and O&M manuals. Implement process control strategies, PID loops, and interlocks to ensure product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance. Provide training and support to operations and maintenance teams on control system use, troubleshooting, and best practices. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system reliability, maintainability, and efficiency.
Qualifications:- BS or AS Degree Proven experience in process automation in the dairy industry or similar food processing environments.
- Strong hands-on experience programming and commissioning Allen-Bradley and Rockwell control systems (RSLogix, Studio 5000, FactoryTalk is preferred).Demonstrated experience with controls integration, PLC/HMI/SCADA architecture, industrial networking, and I/O mapping.
- Proficient in interpreting and producing Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), loop diagrams, and electrical/control schematics.
- Experience with start-up and commissioning activities, FAT/SAT procedures, and field troubleshooting.
- Solid understanding of instrumentation, sensors, valves, and pneumatic/hydraulic control elements used in process plants.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose complex control/system issues under time constraints.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills with experience working in multidisciplinary teams and coordinating with vendors.
- Must have valid drivers license and ability to drive and fly as needed Must be able to travel 50% domestically, 50% remote
- Willingness to travel to project sites for start-up/commissioning and support as required.
Nice to have:
prior experience in food and beverage industry, sanitary design principles, CIP systems, and knowledge of relevant regulatory standards (e.g., FDA, USDA).
Benefits:
100% company-paid healthcare for employees and families, a 10% annual 401(k) company contribution regardless of employee participation, PTO, and potential for relocation assistance
