Controls Automation Engineer
At NorthWind Technical Services , our engineers don't just deliver projects — they deliver confidence. Our customers trust us to keep their systems running, their processes optimized, and their operations moving forward.
Automation Engineers are the technical expert our customers rely on — from first diagnosis to final commissioning.
If you're the kind of engineer who genuinely enjoys figuring out why a system isn't behaving and then fixing it for good, this role was built for you.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
Write PLC, HMI, and computer programs
Test and validate proper function of existing systems; evaluate how the systems may be improved
Travel to customer sites for evaluation of systems and for commissioning of software
Train users and provide post project support
Organize, plan, and prioritize work for multiple projects and for customers in a wide variety of industries
Communicate with customers, vendors, and co-workers to develop best solutions that meet customer needs
Gather Information by observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources
Perform complex problem solving
Diagnose system issues and customer problems and devise best solutions
Proactively anticipate potential issues to circumvent development of problems
Review and obtain relevant information to diagnose problems or system needs, develop, and evaluate options and then implement solutions.
Proactively make timely decisions, often without the benefit of all of the information or consultation with your supervisor
National and international travel is required
*This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice. *
Knowledge and Skill Requirements:
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology to include applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of automation projects
Knowledge of pneumatic conveying, extrusion, drying, separating, and compounding, weighing, and batching, and continuous processes etc.
Fluent use of MS Word; Excel; PowerPoint; GroupWise; EPLAN; PromiseE, AutoCAD; RSLOGIX 5000; RSView; Microsoft Visual Basic.
Required Qualifications:
BS Degree in Engineering - Electrical, Computer, Mechanical, Chemical
Preferred Characteristics:
Ability to build effective relationships that are focused on integrity and trust
An attitude of dedication to achieve professional success
A focus on serving internal and external customers with respect, understanding, and empathy
Ability and willingness to recognize the intrinsic value of every person
Drive and curiosity to explore new technology and innovation for continued growth and improvement
Physical Abilities/Work Environment:
Includes but is not limited to the following:
Climbing, kneeling, lifting
Occasionally exerting up to 20-50 pounds of force
Use of power drills and drive motor vehicles – must have a valid driver’s license
Potential exposure to extreme temperatures but in general, normal office conditions
Because our customers aren't just accounts — they're partners. And our engineers aren't just problem solvers — they're the reason those partnerships hold. When you join NorthWind, you join a team that takes customer success personally and has the technical depth to back it up.
Your work will run real systems, solve real challenges, and make a measurable difference for the people and businesses that depend on us.