Controls Engineer/Programmer

PPS is seeking two Controls Engineers / Programmers to join our growing Controls & Automation team.

These positions will support the design, programming, integration, troubleshooting, and commissioning of industrial automation and control systems. Our team works closely across Controls Operations, Electrical Design, Panel Fabrication, Project Management, and Field Operations to deliver complete automation solutions.

Our projects utilize Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, Siemens, PLCs, HMI/SCADA, VFDs, industrial networks, instrumentation, and automated process systems.

Some projects may involve ITAR-controlled technical data, requiring strict compliance with company security and data-handling procedures.

Key Responsibilities

Controls Engineering & Programming

• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs.
• Program Allen-Bradley/Rockwell and Siemens control systems.
• Develop HMI and SCADA applications.
• Program and integrate VFDs, instrumentation, remote I/O, and control devices.
• Develop sequences, interlocks, permissives, alarms, and control logic.
• Support automated piping, fluid-handling, manufacturing, and process systems.
• Integrate new automation systems with existing and legacy equipment.
• Develop and maintain clear, organized, and maintainable control code.

System Integration

• Develop control-system architectures and automation solutions.
• Integrate PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, VFDs, instrumentation, and industrial networks.
• Support industrial communication protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus, and similar systems.
• Work closely with Electrical Design Engineers on electrical and controls integration.
• Coordinate with the Panel Shop to ensure control systems are properly fabricated.
• Support field installation, startup, and commissioning.

Startup & Commissioning

• Participate in equipment startup and commissioning.
• Verify I/O, sequences, alarms, interlocks, communications, and system functionality.
• Troubleshoot PLC, HMI, electrical, instrumentation, and network issues.
• Support field teams in resolving technical issues.
• Make program modifications during startup and commissioning.
• Document changes and maintain accurate final programs.

Project Support

• Work with Project Managers and Controls Operations to execute projects on schedule and within budget.
• Participate in project kickoff and design reviews.
• Identify technical issues and project risks early.
• Coordinate with equipment suppliers, contractors, and customers.
• Support estimating, scope development, and project planning as needed.
• Assist with project documentation and closeout.

ITAR & Compliance

• Follow all company procedures for handling ITAR-controlled technical data and other controlled information.
• Maintain appropriate security of PLC programs, drawings, specifications, source code, and project documentation.
• Follow approved procedures for accessing, storing, transferring, and sharing controlled information.
• Complete required ITAR, cybersecurity, and data-handling training.
• Report potential security or compliance concerns through established company procedures.

Required Qualifications

• 3–7+ years of controls, automation, or electrical engineering/programming experience.
• Certain projects may require U.S. person status or other authorization based on applicable ITAR requirements.
• Strong PLC programming experience.
• Experience with Allen-Bradley/Rockwell and/or Siemens platforms.
• Experience with HMI and SCADA systems.
• Experience with VFDs and industrial instrumentation.
• Working knowledge of industrial communication networks.
• Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and control drawings.
• Understanding of industrial automation and control systems.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a project team.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.