Controls Specialist

Technical Source is hiring a Controls Specialist for our industrial manufacturing client in Hickory, NC. You will be embedded in the client’s automation group, working side-by-side with an internal controls engineer and a systems integrator engineer on major controls upgrades across several manufacturing lines.

Role Overview

This is a hands-on, plant-floor role focused on commissioning, troubleshooting, and debugging upgraded Allen-Bradley systems—not greenfield programming.

You will:

• Support the installation and startup of new control panels, equipment, and instrumentation (working alongside plant electricians; you are not doing terminations yourself).
• Use Studio 5000 to go online with AB PLCs, monitor ladder logic, interpret faults, and perform small, controlled logic edits as needed.
• Perform I/O and loop checks from field devices through PLC and HMI, verifying proper wiring, scaling, and operation.
• Assist with the configuration and commissioning of AB VFDs and typical industrial instrumentation (pressure, temperature, flow transmitters, proximity sensors, photoeyes, switches, etc.).
• Maintain accurate startup documentation, including I/O check sheets, redlines, and basic startup notes.

You’ll see the direct impact of your work on live production lines in a highly automated manufacturing environment.

What We’re Looking For

Must-Have Technical Skills

• Proven, hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs using Studio 5000:
  • Going online, monitoring ladder logic, working with tags.
  • Performing troubleshooting and small online logic changes (timers, simple interlocks, basic edits).
• Experience with commissioning/startup of control panels or production lines:
  • Executing I/O and loop checks.
  • Working from electrical schematics and I/O lists.
• Experience configuring and commissioning VFDs (AB preferred) and typical field devices in an industrial environment.

Background

• Controls Engineer track: 2–3+ years of industrial AB controls experience, or
• Controls/Automation Technician track: 5+ years of hands-on AB controls/automation experience.
• Industrial manufacturing background required; specific fiber optics/glass experience is not required.

Soft Skills

• Strong troubleshooting mindset and attention to detail.
• Comfortable working in a customer-facing, cross-functional plant environment.
• Clear communicator and team player.

Position Details

• Location: Onsite at client facility in Hickory, NC (100% onsite; no remote/hybrid).
• Schedule: Monday–Friday, normal business hours, ~40 hrs/week with occasional OT; no regular off-shift work.
• Employment Type: W2 only (no C2C).
• Pay Range: $50–65/hr (W2), depending on experience.
• Per Diem: Available for non-local candidates to support travel and lodging while working onsite.