
Controls Hardware Engineer
Required skills
- electrical design
- industrial control panel design
- physical hardware engineering
- automation
- motion systems
- low-voltage DC control circuits
- power distributions
- physical wiring topologies
- multi-axis motion control systems
- electrical schematics
Nice to have
- B&R Industrial Automation
- X20 system
- ACOPOS drives
- cobots
- collaborative robot integration
- safety zones
Role summary
WSI, an industry leader in automated repairs for pressure equipment, seeks a Controls Hardware Engineer in Suwanee, GA. This role focuses on the physical design, schematic creation, and prototype assembly of next-generation motion control systems. Responsibilities include designing control circuits, mapping industrial wiring, specifying hardware for PLC-based systems, and leading prototype builds. The engineer will select components like microprocessors and motor drives, adhering to industrial standards. Collaboration with software engineers is key, but the primary focus remains on hardware infrastructure. The position requires a BS in Electrical Engineering or related field with 5+ years of experience in electrical and control panel design for automation/motion systems.
Controls Hardware Engineer (Electrical & Motion Focus)
Suwanee, GA
ABOUT US
Located across the globe and with more than 45 years of experience, WSI is the industry leader in automated repairs for pressure equipment. WSI's industry experience, global presence, and best-in-class execution are key to delivering improved plant reliability safely and effectively.
WSI has the mission to advance innovation for global infrastructure through specialized industrial technologies. At WSI, our people empower and define who we are. Our shared values are the foundation for building strong, trusting relationships with our employees, stakeholders, and customers. We're small enough for your ideas to make an immediate impact and large enough to offer you opportunities to grow professionally at any stage of your career.
JOB SUMMARY
We are seeking a skilled Controls Hardware Engineer to lead the physical design, schematic creation, and prototype assembly of our next-generation motion control systems. In this role, you will be the bridge between electronic component selection and physical execution. Your primary focus will be designing robust control circuits, mapping out industrial wiring architectures, and specifying hardware for PLC-based motion systems.
This is a hardware-focused engineering role. While you will collaborate closely with our software engineering team, your principal responsibility will be the physical infrastructure: creating electrical drawings, designing panel layouts, and executing hands-on prototype builds.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design and specify low-voltage DC control circuits, power distributions, and physical wiring topologies for multi-axis motion control systems independently suggesting solutions and identifying the information or resources needed to move the work forward.
- Create comprehensive, production-ready electrical schematics, point-to-point wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts using industrial CAD tools (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN).
- Lead the physical build, wiring, and hardware troubleshooting of initial prototype systems and test benches.
- Evaluate and select microprocessors, industrial controllers, sensors, motor drives, and safety interlocks required for high-performance motion applications researching and becoming proficient with new technologies as needed.
- Participate in and actively contribute to tooling design teams
- Work effectively with a high level of autonomy while maintaining strong communication and collaboration across multiple departments.
- Progress multiple projects and tasks based on schedule and budget commitments proactively identifying priorities, resolving obstacles, and escalating issues when appropriate.
- Contribute to plotting short- and long-term technology strategies for the business to support potential growth areas and technology differentiation
- Provide support as required to resolve technology deficiencies in the existing technology base including researching unfamiliar issues and developing solutions with limited direction.
- Provide technical mentoring to less experienced engineering personnel.
- Resolve complex and unique technical issues and provide expert technical reviews and troubleshooting.
- Other duties as assigned.
- BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related field
- 5+ years of experience in electrical design, industrial control panel design, or physical hardware engineering for automation/motion systems.
- Mastery of industrial electrical schematic software (AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, SolidWorks Electrical, or similar).
- Deep understanding of circuit protection, industrial wiring standards, microprocessors, and sensor integration.
- Working knowledge of and adherence to applicable NEC, NFPA, and CSA standards, as well as applicable CE conformity requirements.
- Proven experience with hands-on mechanical/electrical assembly, wire crimping, soldering, and troubleshooting physical hardware with multimeters/oscilloscopes.
- Working knowledge of robotics and arc welding and machining processes is a plus
- Experience in computer-aided tools used to design electrical control systems
- Experience in design for high noise environment, a plus
- Support field personnel in troubleshooting problems with existing systems
- PLC Hardware Familiarity: Experience specifying and wiring components within B&R Industrial Automation ecosystems (X20 system, ACOPOS drives, etc.) is highly preferred.
- Cobots: Familiarity with collaborative robot integration, safety zones, and end-of-arm tooling hardware.
- PCB: (printed circuit board) design and layout experience.
Employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications. WSI prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and is committed to maintaining a workplace that promotes respect, dignity, and equal opportunity for all.
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