Controls Engineer (Thermal Management)

TL;DR

Controls Engineer (Thermal Management): Designing, developing, and improving electrical and control systems for chiller products with an accent on PLC software and UL certification. Focus on developing control architectures, troubleshooting Carel PLC software, and ensuring regulatory compliance for low-to-mid volume production.

Location: Hybrid in Knoxville, TN area or Remote from West Michigan

Company

A fast-growing startup specializing in innovative thermal management and advanced cooling technologies to improve performance and efficiency across various industries.

What you will do

• Develop control system architectures, schematics, and specify electrical panels and wiring harnesses for chiller products.
• Create and maintain AC/DC power and control schematics, BOMs, and manufacturing work instructions.
• Develop and troubleshoot Carel PLC software for chiller control systems.
• Ensure designs meet UL requirements (e.g., UL60335-2-40) and coordinate UL certification activities.
• Perform risk assessments, design reviews, and DFMEA to implement safety controls and interlocks.
• Collaborate with mechanical and manufacturing teams to optimize cost and manufacturability for production.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of experience in controls engineering focused on product design for low-to-mid volume manufacturing.
• Hands-on PLC programming experience (Carel, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent).
• Working knowledge of UL certification processes and UL panel-building requirements (UL508A).
• Proficiency with electrical CAD tools such as EPLAN or AutoCAD Electrical.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, etc.).

Nice to have

• Experience with UL submission paperwork and direct interaction with testing labs.
• Knowledge of Lean Product Development principles and tools.
• Familiarity with PLM systems, version control, and ISO 9000 design requirements.
• Relevant certifications in Rockwell/Siemens or NFPA 79.

Culture & Benefits

• Entrepreneurial and forward-thinking culture in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
• Values-driven organization emphasizing innovation, precision, and collaboration.
• Focus on professional development and measurable results.
• Opportunities to take ownership and contribute ideas to a growing team.