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Controls Engineer

Applied Industrial Technologies

IRIS Automation, IL · Posted September 23, 2026

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About the job

Primary functions include specifying a single product, developing a concept, programming, or designing a complete industrial control package. This role will work independently and as a team member to evaluate applications, design control systems, and generate system proposals or project specifications.

All engineering team members may also be responsible for managing projects through the production process and taking necessary steps to maintain schedules. The project management tasks include regular updates to management or customers, daily guidance to assembly technicians, participation in the final inspection, and testing completed systems.

Essential Job Functions:

Apply Gibson Engineering's products and technologies to automate client processes and solve their challenges

Develop, review, and maintain drawings, BOMs, project specifications, and engineering change documentation

Generate quotations for projects that include cable assemblies, control panels, turnkey systems, and programming services.

Complete feasibility studies with industrial automation equipment such as machine vision systems, robotics, HMI, or PLCs to specify hardware and software required to solve new applications.

Design control systems. This includes electrical schematics, component selection, and industrial control panel layouts.

Configure, program, test, and debug various automation equipment and systems. This includes but is not limited to PLCs, HMIs, motion controls (Servo, Stepper, VFD), robots, data collection, and vision systems.

Manage engineering or application evaluation projects and regularly communicate status and expectations to management, salespeople, or end customers as required.

Provide customer education one-on-one, to a small group, or as a subject matter expert in a classroom environment.

Contribute to continuous improvement and documentation of internal engineering and production processes.

Communicate project status and expectations to management, sales, and clients.

Provide technical support and training to colleagues and customers

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in electrical, computer or other relevant engineering disciplines

Prefer 3-5 years of relevant experience in engineering

Familiarity with industrial control systems, including but not limited to PLC, HMI, Machine Vision and Motion Control Products, is a plus.

Working knowledge of AutoCAD Electrical is preferred

Ability to break down, organize, and manage complex projects

Strong multitasking, prioritization, and time management skills

Ability to retain technical details & excellent attention to detail

Ability to effectively communicate with customers in person, as well as over the phone, email and video calls

Founded in 1923, Applied Industrial Technologies (NYSE: AIT) is a leading value-added distributor and technical solutions provider of industrial motion, fluid power, flow control, automation technologies, and related maintenance supplies. Our leading brands, specialized services, and comprehensive knowledge serve MRO and OEM end users in virtually all industrial markets through our multi-channel capabilities that provide choice, convenience, and expertise.

Applied Industrial Technologies is built on a philosophy that puts people first. We are an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to a workforce in which we enforce fair treatment and provide growth opportunities for everyone. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of age, race, color, national origin, genetics, religion, gender, marital status, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances.