Junior Controls Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Department: Controls Automation Engineering
Location: Chichester, NH (office-based) with required travel to customer job sites
Reports to: Senior Controls Engineer or CEO
Employment Type: Full-time

Position Summary:
We are looking for a motivated Junior Controls Engineer to join our automation team, supporting projects in the food beverage and general manufacturing sectors. You will assist in designing, programming, and commissioning industrial automation systems, working closely with senior engineers to deliver safe, efficient, and compliant automation solutions.

This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career engineer looking to gain hands-on experience in PLC/HMI programming, controls design, and system integration in a fast- paced, production-focused environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the design, development, and implementation of control systems for production lines, packaging equipment, conveyors, and processing machinery.
• Assist in PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or others) and HMI development for new and retrofit projects.
• Help develop electrical schematics, I/O lists, panel layouts, and control cabinet designs.
• Participate in FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing), commissioning, and field troubleshooting at food/beverage and manufacturing facilities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including project managers, electricians, maintenance, and QA to meet production, safety, and hygiene requirements.
• Assist in system documentation including operation manuals, SOPs, and training materials.
• Learn and follow standards relevant to the food and manufacturing industries (e.g., FDA, USDA, GMP, NFPA 70E).

Required Qualifications:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• 0–2 years of experience with industrial control systems (co-ops, labs, and internships count).
• Basic knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, sensors, VFDs, and motor control systems.
• Familiarity with ladder logic and basic programming principles.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Willingness to travel to client sites as needed (sometimes in hygienic or regulated environments).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Exposure to Rockwell Studio 5000, Siemens TIA Portal, or other automation platforms.
• Experience working in or with production environments such as bottling, canning, food processing, or discrete manufacturing.
• Familiarity with SCADA systems and industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, etc.).
• Understanding of hygienic design, CIP systems, or packaging line automation is a plus.
• Knowledge of safety and compliance standards (UL 508A, OSHA, HACCP).

What We Offer:

• Hands-on experience with real-world food and manufacturing automation systems.
• Career development and mentorship from senior automation professionals.
• Training in industry-leading tools and standards.
• Competitive salary, benefits, and travel opportunities.

Company DescriptionAt Global Automation and Controls, we empower businesses to boost productivity and maximize revenue by delivering reliable, end-to-end automation solutions that minimize risk and ensure success.

Company Description

At Global Automation and Controls, we empower businesses to boost productivity and maximize revenue by delivering reliable, end-to-end automation solutions that minimize risk and ensure success.