Hands-on PLC programming Controls Engineer

Company: Talent Search PRO
Location: Orlando
Posted on: February 15, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description JOB DESCRIPTION: We have a Controls Engineer position open in Orlando, FL. This position is responsible for electrical/controls engineering on large scale projects. Project requirements involve control system design from scratch (hardware/software/network), electrical panel design and power calculations, risk assessment, component selection and configuration, control system programming, and control system installation/commissioning. RESPONSIBILITIES: Must be organized, technically competent, have effective oral and written communications, experienced in working in a multi-disciplined environment and interfacing with engineers, designers, and drafters Responsible for system design from blank sheet of paper to create concept of electrical/control/system components based on project requirements Experience doing design via drafting software (AutoCAD preferred) Provide input, and system modification as needed, for system integration with other project disciplines Able to interface with facility design to optimize panel location minimizing voltage drop and designing a more efficient system hardware layout Manage vendor scope to verify safety, functionality, and all contract requirements are satisfied Ensures design complies with any local or government agency design/implementation codes in addition to client codes/standards Knowledge of analyzing system design for Hazard analysis development and mitigation Design and analysis for safety critical parts within a control system Designing redundant mitigations in system to increase safety and reliability Designing systems with complex motion and integration from automated systems Develops documents of system configuration and design. Documents include Description of operation, Detailed control system design description, panel assembly drawings and schematics, termination drawings, network layout, system implementation/acceptance test plans, system routine maintenance/job plans Able to perform the following system design calculations/analysis: Short circuit protection, harmonics, noise reduction / cancellation, power consumption, load flow, short circuit protection, protective relay / circuit design, ground fault monitoring, safety system implementation (SIL/PL rating knowledge is preferred) Designs, develops, and implements DCS/PLC control system (logic software) to meet process requirements. As well as the ability to understand and implement client design standards for software system Understanding of control system components and instrumentation to properly design software interface/control to achieve system functionality Develops documents detailing control/software configuration and design. Documents include: Theory/Description of operation, Detailed control system design description, Software design plan, Detailed software implementation/description, system implementation/acceptance test plans Knowledge of design, troubleshooting, and code implementation for the following programming languages: Ladder logic (required), C++ (preferred), visual basic (preferred), and structured text (required) Ability to perform processor loading calculations, scan time analysis, input/output response timing analysis, control system network delays analysis, and program task/code block priorities/timing management/interface Can design code that is efficient (not processor resource heavy) while maintaining a minimalist implementation to help facility future modifications and understanding by client post turnover. This includes providing any documentation and/or tools that will assist with program understanding and troubleshooting Ability to diagnose control system issues during troubleshooting to assist in determining root cause (trending, system analysis, test logic, etc.) Ability to minimize secondary faults from occurring within logic by programming “smart” diagnostics that can determine root cause and minimize further effects caused by initial fault Will assist with initial start-up and debug integrated systems and the development of system documentation Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients in industries such as entertainment and manufacturing Will act as technical lead on projects and may guide lower level engineers, technicians, and contractors Knowledge of ride system design for attractions involving guests is preferred Capable of working “off” shifts as needed during installation/commissioning to support project QUALIFICATIONS: Must be organized, technically competent, have effective oral and written communications, experienced in working in a multi-disciplined environment and interfacing with engineers, designers, and drafters Education – bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. (Bachelor’s degrees in other disciplines may be acceptable if work experience is directly related to electrical engineering. Disciplines outside of the electrical/controls area will not be considered) Experience – 5 years of experience covering most responsibilities listed above. Preferred experience in ASTM standards, attractions industry, safety engineering, instrumentation, components, and logic programming. Experience with AutoCAD is also desired Key Competencies – Knowledge of contract documents and specifications. Ability to collect field data and accurately record findings. Ability to perform system design functions. Planning, Customer Focused, Timely Decision Making, Informing, Organizing, Priority Setting, Problem Solving. Experience working with hardware/software from one of the major industrial manufacturers (i.e. Allen-Bradly, Siemens, etc.). Experience with ethernet based distributed remote I/O systems Skills – All employees are required to be proficient in the use of Microsoft Windows and Office environments Travel – Ability to travel up to 30% worst case (10% is typical with last couple years depending on project) Physical Demands of Position Seeing, color perception, hearing, listening, clear speech, dexterity in hands, driving, lifting, climbing, ability to mount and dismount equipment, pushing, and pulling Working Condition Expected on client location 5 days a week, Standard office environment, On-site office environment, and diverse industrial/construction environments. Frequent PC usage, copy machines, phones.

Keywords: Talent Search PRO, Lake Magdalene , Hands-on PLC programming Controls Engineer, Engineering , Orlando, Florida