Principal Engineer, Controls & Instrumentation
$165,000–$210,000 year
On-siteMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States
Job Summary
Lead controls and instrumentation engineering on capital projects from concept through startup and handoff. Own the architecture, programming, and optimization of PLC and DCS systems, and design automated software solutions to streamline manufacturing processes. Develop electrical schematics, I/O documentation, and technical drawings while specifying and integrating field instrumentation for process measurement. Troubleshoot automated machinery issues, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and establish maintenance strategies with rigorous testing protocols. Ensure all designs comply with NEC, NFPA 70E, and ISO 13849 safety standards, then develop training programs for staff. Collaborate with cross-functional teams and vendors to implement new automation technologies. This role requires 10+ years of experience in controls/automation engineering within process or discrete manufacturing.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation, or a related field
- 10+ years of experience in Controls/Automation Engineering within a process or discrete manufacturing environment
- Advanced proficiency in PLC, DCS, HMI, and SCADA programming (Rockwell, Emerson, Siemens, or similar platforms)
- Experience with robotics, co-bots, sensors, actuators, and other industrial automation components
- Proficiency in CAD and simulation software for automation system design
- Strong understanding of electrical and mechanical systems, with the ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics
- Ability to work on the plant floor, including occasional exposure to noise, heights, and confined spaces
- Some travel required for vendor visits, commissioning, and multi-site support (~10–25%)
Desired Qualifications
- Experience in the chemical manufacturing industry preferred
- Preferred: experience with batch processing, MES integration, or historian systems
- Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and practices
- Certifications in automation/controls technologies a plus
- Excellent technical writing, documentation, and communication skills, with strong organizational and multitasking abilities
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