Controls Support Specialist

Position Summary

The Controls Support Specialist provides technical support for Gibraltar's active vehicle barrier control systems through PLC programming, troubleshooting, commissioning, documentation, and customer support. This position partners with Engineering, Production, and Field Service to ensure control systems are configured, tested, and commissioned to Gibraltar's quality standards.

The ideal candidate is hands-on, detail-oriented, and enjoys solving technical problems in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role supports both in-house production and field operations while helping maintain Gibraltar's high standards for quality and customer satisfaction.

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Essential Responsibilities

PLC & Controls Support

· Assist with programming, editing, testing, and troubleshooting PLC-based control systems.

· Configure and troubleshoot Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), HMIs, sensors, relays, safety circuits, and other electrical control components.

· Perform I/O verification, functional testing, and control panel checkout prior to shipment.

· Assist with factory acceptance testing of control panels, hydraulic power units, electric operators, gates, and barrier systems.

· Support control system commissioning, startup, and validation activities.

Technical Support

· Provide technical support to installers, contractors, integrators, customers, and internal departments via phone, email, remote access, and on-site visits.

· Troubleshoot PLCs, VFDs, electrical systems, industrial networking, and automation equipment.

· Document troubleshooting activities, programming revisions, commissioning results, and field service reports.

· Identify recurring field issues and communicate recommendations for continuous improvement.

Engineering & Documentation

· Maintain PLC programs, VFD parameter files, setup sheets, testing procedures, and commissioning documentation.

· Assist with updates to electrical drawings, wiring diagrams, Bills of Material (BOMs), and controls documentation.

· Support engineering standardization efforts by following approved controls designs and programming standards.

· Assist Engineering with product improvements and new product development initiatives.

Manufacturing Support

· Partner with the Controls Assembly team during panel builds, testing, and system verification.

· Assist with robotics, automated equipment, paint line controls, and other manufacturing automation systems.

· Perform hands-on troubleshooting, testing, and wiring verification as required.

Additional Responsibilities

· Travel to customer sites for commissioning, troubleshooting, service support, and customer training as needed.

· Maintain a safe work environment by following company safety procedures.

· Perform other duties as assigned.

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Required Qualifications

Education

· High School Diploma or GED required.

· Associate degree in Electrical Technology, Industrial Automation, Mechatronics, or related technical field preferred.

Experience

· 2–5 years of experience in industrial controls, automation, electrical troubleshooting, field service, or a related technical field.

· Experience troubleshooting PLC-based control systems.

· Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts.

Knowledge & Skills

· Working knowledge of PLC programming and industrial control systems.

· Experience troubleshooting VFDs, motor controls, sensors, relays, and safety devices.

· Understanding of industrial networking, including Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, IP addressing, and communication devices.

· Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills.

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

· Ability to prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

· Strong attention to detail and documentation skills.

· Ability to work independently and collaboratively across multiple departments.

· Willingness to travel occasionally for customer support and commissioning activities.

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Preferred Qualifications

· Experience with AutomationDirect BRX PLCs.

· Experience with AutomationDirect DuraPulse VFDs.

· Experience with C-more HMIs or similar operator interfaces.

· Experience with automated gates, hydraulic power units, electric operators, access control systems, or perimeter security products.

· Experience commissioning industrial automation equipment.

· PLC programming certifications or industrial automation training.

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Physical Requirements

· Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb as required.

· Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.

· Ability to work around electrical equipment and industrial machinery.

· Ability to travel to customer sites and manufacturing facilities as needed.