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Drives Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RoviSys

Lead Controls/Drives Engineer

Aurora, OH

$100K - $130K/yr

Utilize engineering and industry knowledge to analyze customer's drives, control systems and critical processes * Utilize a variety of test equipment to start-up, commission and repair Drives and ...

RoviSys

Lead Controls/Drives Engineer

Aurora, OH · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Utilize engineering and industry knowledge to analyze customer's drives, control systems and critical processes * Utilize a variety of test equipment to start-up, commission and repair Drives and ...

RoviSys

Lead Controls/Drives Engineer

Aurora, OH · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Utilize engineering and industry knowledge to analyze customer's drives, control systems and critical processes * Utilize a variety of test equipment to start-up, commission and repair Drives and ...

Wabtec

Lead Engineer - Electric Drives Software

Erie, PA · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

You will be part of a global engineering team specializing in Drives Control and Power Electronics for locomotives and off highway vehicles products, supporting critical traction, auxiliary, and ...

Wabtec

Lead Engineer - Electric Drives Software

Erie, PA

$99K - $131K/yr

You will be part of a global engineering team specializing in Drives Control and Power Electronics for locomotives and off highway vehicles products, supporting critical traction, auxiliary, and ...

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$37K

$87.2K

$136.5K

How much do drives engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for drives engineer in the United States is $87,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $97,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Drives Engineer?

A Drives Engineer is a technical professional who specializes in the design, installation, programming, and maintenance of variable frequency drives (VFDs) and other motor control systems used in industrial automation. They work with electrical and mechanical systems to optimize motor performance, energy efficiency, and process control. Drives Engineers are often responsible for troubleshooting drive-related issues, integrating drives into larger automation systems, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Their expertise is crucial in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, water treatment, and transportation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drives Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drives Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and motor control systems, often supported by a relevant degree and practical experience. Proficiency in programming PLCs, configuring variable frequency drives (VFDs), and familiarity with industrial communication protocols are typically required, and certifications from manufacturers like Siemens or ABB are advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in diagnosing issues and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure efficient system performance, minimize downtime, and enable the successful delivery of automation projects.

What is the difference between Drives Engineer vs Motor Control Engineer?

AspectDrives EngineerMotor Control Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, certifications in drives or automationBachelor's in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, certifications in motor control or automation
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, automation systemsResearch labs, industrial automation, manufacturing
Industry UsageDesign, installation, and maintenance of variable frequency drives and automation systemsDesign and development of motor control algorithms and systems

Drives Engineers and Motor Control Engineers often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. However, Drives Engineers focus on the integration and maintenance of drives and automation systems, while Motor Control Engineers specialize in developing motor control algorithms and systems. Both roles are essential in industrial automation, but their specific responsibilities and expertise areas differ.

What are the typical challenges Drives Engineers face when working on large-scale industrial automation projects?

Drives Engineers working on large-scale industrial automation projects often encounter challenges such as integrating drives with existing control systems, ensuring compatibility across different hardware and software platforms, and maintaining system reliability under demanding operational conditions. They may also need to troubleshoot complex issues on-site and coordinate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including electrical engineers, PLC programmers, and maintenance staff. Successful Drives Engineers develop strong problem-solving skills and clear communication abilities to navigate these technical and collaborative challenges.
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What job categories do people searching Drives Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drives Engineer jobs are:
Drives Engineer jobs near you
Lead Controls/Drives Engineer

Lead Controls/Drives Engineer

RoviSys

Aurora, OH

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Overview

Works directly with customers and RoviSys team to define functional requirements and design, configure, commission control systems & software programs for specific aspects of Drive Coordination and Control from single motor application to multiple and coordinated drive systems

Responsibilities
  • Lead teams of engineers and technicians to provide control system solutions
  • Work in team environment with engineers and designers from RoviSys, partners and clients to provide state of the art Control Systems to improve efficiency, product quality, and profitability of process manufacturing
  • Utilize engineering and industry knowledge to analyze customer's drives, control systems and critical processes
  • Utilize a variety of test equipment to start-up, commission and repair Drives and Control equipment, such as, but not limited to: analog and digital, LV / MV AC / DC, standalone and coordinated drive systems as well as PLC
  • Controllers in Steel, Paper, Chemical and other heavy industries
  • Define and implement programmable logic controller (PLC) & distributed control system (DCS) configurations
  • Testing and on-site commissioning and qualification of control systems
  • Mentor less experienced engineers
  • Develop engineering standards to improve efficiency and accuracy of project execution
  • Provide technical sales support to RoviSys business development team
Qualifications
  • 5-7 years of experience in automation or related field
  • Demonstrates the ability to perform technical and managerial responsibilities
  • Communicate effectively and professionally with both customers and colleagues to present new ideas, accomplish challenging goals, and solve problems
  • Ability to guild a project with little supervision and guidance
  • Proven track record of managing small projects from start to finish
  • Ability to author proposals, change orders for new and repeat business through relationships
  • Thorough understanding of control system design and coding
  • Self-motivated, excellent communication skills, and enjoy working with people
  • Hands-on experience with current PLC or DCS platforms

Desired Qualifications:

  • B.S. in Electrical, Computer, or Chemical Engineering or Engineering Technology
  • Electrical design fundamentals
  • Minimum of 5 years of field engineering experience installing, troubleshooting and maintaining coordinated drives and controls equipment including - Allen Bradley, ABB, Siemens, GE[KC1] / TMEIC , Toshiba, etc.
  • Minimum of 5 year of field design experience working with drives and controls equipment
  • Good understanding of both DC and AC drives and control methodology and Variable Speed Drives and PLC and DCS interfaces
  • Programming and Application knowledge in Steel Rolling and Processing (Gauge & Tension Control, Hot Mill, Cold Mill, Galvanizing Lines, Pickling Lines, Tension Leveling Lines)
  • Background in programming and troubleshooting PLC's / Drives and understanding of key communication protocols (DLAN, ISBUS, ProfiBus, BacNet, etc[KC2]
  • Good understanding of Electrical Power Distribution as it relates to VSD operability and reliability
  • Awareness of process safety and good documentation practices
Compensation & Benefits Highlights

  • Competitive Base Salary: $100,000-$130,000, depending on experience 

  • Performance Bonuses: Bonus structure designed to reward results 

  • Travel Perks: Travel incentives + per-diem packages for field assignments 

  • Full Benefits Package: Medical, dental, and vision coverage 

  • Retirement Ready: 401(k) with company match 

  • Time Off: Generous PTO which includes vacation, holidays, and unlimited personal time 

  • Grow With Us: Ongoing training, certifications, and professional development support 

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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