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Drives Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hydro-Gear

Product Engineer

Sullivan, IL

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working through complex calculations, leading technical projects, and using data to drive engineering decisions that support production, quality, and product ...

Hydro Gear Partnership

Product Engineer

Princeton, KY · On-site

Hydro-Gear is a world leader in the design and production of precision drive solutions, serving ... The Product Engineer will manage technical projects, support existing production products, perform ...

Hydro Gear Partnership

Product Engineer

Huntingdon, TN · On-site

Hydro-Gear is a world leader in the design and production of precision drive solutions, serving ... The Product Engineer will manage technical projects, support existing production products, perform ...

Hydro Gear Partnership

Product Engineer

Sullivan, IL · On-site

Hydro-Gear is a world leader in the design and production of precision drive solutions, serving ... The Product Engineer will manage technical projects, support existing production products, perform ...

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Industrial Automation Field Service Engineer - Controls, PLCs & Drives

Boston, MA · Remote

$45 - $48/hr

Industrial Automation Field Service Engineer - Controls, PLCs & Drives We are seeking an experienced Industrial Automation Field Service Engineer to provide hands-on technical support for industrial ...

Inteplast Group, Ltd

ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

Talbott, TN · On-site

PLC, HMI, and variable speed drive programming * PC maintenance, troubleshooting and repair * Must have good communication skills and be able to multi-task * Some nights and weekends work may be ...

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All JobsDrives Engineer Jobs

Drives Engineer information

See salary details

$37K

$87.2K

$136.5K

How much do drives engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 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.
More about Drives Engineer jobs
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Drives Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drives Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,220 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Wheeling, IL

$120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Title: Electrical Engineer
Location: Near Wheeling, IL
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Salary:$120k/yr with potential flexibility
Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package and career development opportunities

We are seeking an experienced Electrical Engineer III to support the design and development of electrical systems for transit products. This role will focus on controls, harnesses, electrical systems development, product innovation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive engineering solutions from concept through production.

Job Duties:
• Design and develop electrical systems based on customer and technical requirements
• Make engineering decisions to optimize product performance, manufacturability, and cost efficiency
• Support electrical system development from concept through production launch
• Contribute to product innovation, process improvements, and potential patent development
• Participate in DFMEA sessions and validation planning activities
• Follow APQP/NPD processes to support successful product launches
• Lead or support root cause analysis and corrective actions for electrical issues
• Evaluate specifications and performance requirements to develop cost-effective solutions
• Collaborate with manufacturing and supply chain teams to support DFM/DFA initiatives
• Create and review wiring diagrams, schematics, and system layouts
• Analyze testing results to improve product reliability and overall performance
• Support Sales and Field Service teams in resolving customer issues
• Manage or contribute to engineering projects and project deliverables
• Support prototype development, testing, and troubleshooting activities
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned

Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Electronics Engineering required; Master’s degree preferred
• Degree from an ABET-accredited institution preferred
• 6+ years of relevant electrical engineering experience
• Basic project management skills with the ability to lead small engineering projects or project components
• Experience developing electrical systems within transportation industries
• Working knowledge of engineering and manufacturing principles, practices, and procedures
• Experience with APQP, NPD Stage Gate, DFMEA, RCA/8D, DFM/DFA, engineering analysis, and hand calculations
• Familiarity with Poka-Yoke, PPAP, VAVE, Lean Six Sigma, and DOE methodologies
• Experience designing PCBs for motor control, embedded systems, and I/O applications
• Knowledge of transportation electrical systems, schematics, and system topologies
• Strong electrical testing, troubleshooting, and prototype development skills
• Strong understanding of DC motors, relays, and contactors

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.