Controls Engineer/Controls Engineering Manager (Arroyo Grande)

About This Jobs

Controls Engineer / Controls Engineering Manager

Location: Central Coast, California

Overview

Cloacina, LLC, a family-owned business that manufactures wastewater treatment systems, is looking for a Controls Engineer / Controls Engineering Manager. This position involves designing, maintaining, and diagnosing PLC-based control systems for Membrane Bio-Reactor (MBR) equipment. The company values a strong work ethic and cultural compatibility and is willing to train a motivated candidate who has the right mindset, even if they lack certain technical skills.

Responsibilities

• Examine control panel diagrams and engineering drawings, such as P&IDs.
• Create and adjust PLC programs using Rockwell Automation RSLogix 5000 for CompactLogix 5380 systems, along with HMI visualizations through FactoryTalk SE Studio.
• Offer programming assistance for Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
• Resolve issues on existing operational systems by analyzing data, reviewing code, and identifying root causes.
• Work with Electrical Engineering, Engineering, and Lifecycle departments on design changes and issue resolution.

Required Qualifications

• Background in PLC programming, particularly Allen Bradley RSLogix 5000 ladder logic for CompactLogix systems.
• Familiarity with control theory, including feedback, feed-forward, and PID loops.
• Knowledge of PLC hardware design and setup of I/O cards.
• Understanding of IEEE 802 Ethernet networking and protocols like DHCP, BootP, and Ethernet/IP.
• Solid communication abilities, both technical and non-technical.
• Capacity for technical writing to produce system documentation.
• Ability to work both independently and cooperatively on various tasks.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, a related field, or comparable experience.

Desired / Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in programming and configuring VFDs, such as those from Allen Bradley, Schneider, or Danfoss.
• General programming experience, for instance with C++, Python, or SQL.
• Knowledge of process equipment, including pumps, valves, and instrumentation.
• Ability to troubleshoot PLC control systems and related hardware.
• Experience with SCADA systems like WonderWare or Ignition.
• Familiarity with applicable codes and standards, such as ISA, NEC, IEEE, UL, and OSHA.

Physical Requirements

• Extended periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to lift items weighing up to 25 pounds occasionally.

Position Offers

Competitive salary, medical, dental, and vision benefits, FSA, life insurance, paid time off, and a safe harbor 401(K) plan.

Notice of Work Environment and Occupational Hazards

The wastewater industry involves occupational hazards. Employees may encounter biological or chemical hazards, confined spaces, moving parts, extreme temperatures, risk of electrical shock, and high noise levels. Contact with wastewater containing human waste and pathogens is possible. Processes also involve toxic or corrosive chemicals. Strict adherence to safety protocols and proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is mandatory. Staying current with vaccinations, such as Hepatitis A/B and Tetanus, is strongly recommended.