Junior Controls Engineer

Vacuum Instruments Corp. LLC seeks a Junior Controls Engineer onsite in Ronkonkoma, NY to design, program, troubleshoot, and commission PLC/HMI based control systems for leak detection, automated test equipment, and custom manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC software for automated test and production equipment, including debugging and optimization.
• Design and implement HMI applications for machine operation, diagnostics, and data collection.
• Assist with machine commissioning, debugging, and startup activities both in-house and at customer facilities as needed.
• Create and maintain electrical schematics using AutoCAD Electrical or AutoCAD.
• Document machine control systems with PLC I/O layouts and associated control panels.
• Document machine control systems including safety circuitry and pneumatic valve controls.
• Document sensor integration within control systems and related wiring considerations.
• Generate and maintain electrical Bills of Materials (BOMs) for electrical and controls assemblies.
• Specify and select appropriate electrical and controls components for designs.
• Support manufacturing and service teams with troubleshooting and technical assistance.
• Conduct electrical system testing and validation prior to shipment.
• Contribute to developing and maintaining engineering standards and documentation.
• Collaborate closely with Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, Service, and Project Management to ensure project success.

Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Technology, or a related technical field.
• 3–5 years of experience in industrial automation, machine controls, or automated equipment design.
• Experience programming and troubleshooting PLC systems.
• Experience developing HMI interfaces and operator screens.
• Familiarity with industrial machine controls and automation systems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Experience creating electrical schematics using AutoCAD or AutoCAD Electrical.
• Understanding of industrial control panel design and wiring practices.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment.

Technologies

• AutoCAD Electrical
• AutoCAD
• Allen-Bradley PLCs
• Allen-Bradley HMIs
• Siemens PLCs
• Siemens HMIs
• Ethernet/IP
• Profinet
• VFDs

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Preferred Qualifications

• Rockwell Automation (Allen-Bradley PLCs and HMIs)
• Siemens PLC and HMI platforms
• Light curtains and machine safety systems
• Pneumatic valve control systems
• Proximity sensors and industrial instrumentation
• Variable frequency drives (VFDs)
• Ethernet/IP and Profinet communications
• Industrial networking and communications protocols
• Experience supporting automated manufacturing or test equipment
• Familiarity with machine safety standards and control system best practices
• Experience creating and maintaining electrical Bills of Materials

Desired Skills

• Strong attention to detail and solid documentation practices
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities concurrently
• Excellent communication and organizational capabilities
• Willingness to learn new technologies and automation platforms
• Hands-on approach to problem solving and equipment troubleshooting
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment supporting both standard products and custom systems

What You'll Work On

• Helium leak detection systems
• Automated test equipment
• Custom manufacturing machinery
• Robotic and semi-automated production systems
• Data acquisition and process monitoring systems
• Industrial control panels and machine safety systems

Pay

• Salary: USD 70,000 - 74,000 per year

Experience

• Industrial Automation and Machine Controls: 3 years (Required)
• Commissioning Leak Detection Systems: 3 years (Required)
• AutoCAD Electrical: 3 years (Required)
• Troubleshooting PLC Programming: 3 years (Required)
• Design and Develop HMI Applications: 3 years (Required)
• Automated Manufacturing Test Equipment: 3 years (Required)

Ability to Relocate

• Ronkonkoma, NY 11779: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location

• On-site, Ronkonkoma, NY