Electrical Engineer Controls Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Location: South Seattle, WA (occasional travel to Bellevue, WA)Experience Level: Mid-Senior

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to support the development, deployment, and optimization of advanced automation and material handling systems. This individual will be responsible for developing machine control software, creating system configurations, troubleshooting automation systems, and supporting scalable controls architectures across complex industrial environments. The ideal candidate combines strong controls engineering fundamentals with a software-oriented mindset and thrives in fast-paced, highly ambiguous environments.

• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot machine control applications using Structured Text (ST).
• Create and maintain JSON-based machine configuration files.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, panel layouts, and mechanical drawing packages.
• Design, test, and deploy control system functionality for automated equipment and industrial machinery.
• Support commissioning, integration, and troubleshooting activities.
• Participate in source code management, version control, and peer code reviews using Git workflows.
• Work closely with cross-functional engineering teams to develop scalable and maintainable controls solutions.
• Assist with simulation validation and testing efforts.
• Support modernization initiatives focused on applying software development best practices to industrial controls systems.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years of experience in controls engineering, industrial automation, robotics, manufacturing, or material handling systems.
• Advanced proficiency in Structured Text (ST) programming.
• Strong understanding of object-oriented programming (OOP) concepts and their application to machine control software.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical and mechanical drawing sets.
• Experience creating, editing, and troubleshooting JSON-formatted configuration files.
• Experience using Git for version control, file management, branching, and code reviews.
• Ability to work independently and effectively in a highly ambiguous environment with limited direction.

• Experience with CODESYS development environments.
• Experience with TwinCAT and Beckhoff-based automation systems.
• Familiarity with EtherCAT communication networks.
• Exposure to Emulate3D simulation software.
• Experience with conveyors, sortation systems, automated machinery, or material handling equipment.
• Experience supporting large-scale distributed control systems.
• Willingness and aptitude to learn new controls platforms and development environments.

• Structured Text (ST)
• Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
• JSON
• Git
• EtherCAT
• CODESYS
• TwinCAT
• Industrial Automation
• PLC Programming
• Material Handling Systems
• Automation Controls

Collaborative engineering team of approximately 18 engineers. Fast-paced product development and deployment environment. Significant opportunity to influence the evolution of modern controls architectures and software-driven automation systems. Projects focused on building scalable systems capable of managing and supporting large fleets of connected devices.

Immediate need for two Controls Engineers. Additional hiring anticipated as project scope grows. Potential expansion of 2-6 additional engineers in the future.

The ideal candidate is a technically strong controls engineer who can bridge traditional industrial automation with modern software development practices. They are comfortable solving complex problems, navigating ambiguity, and developing scalable automation solutions that extend beyond traditional PLC programming.

Everforth Apex is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Everforth Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRateds Best of Staffing® in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work® in the United Kingdom and Mexico.

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life
• Disability
• Other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection
• Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)
• 401K program allowing contributions typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure
• Health Savings Account (HSA) on the HDHP plan
• SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions
• Corporate discount savings program and other discounts
• On-demand training program, certification prep, and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure
• Certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA

If you require an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act to participate in an interview with a virtual recruiter or to use our website for a search or application, please contact our Benefits Department at accommodations@apexsystems.com or 804-523-8228. Please note that this contact information is strictly to be used for medical ADA accommodations and that no other inquiries will be answered.

Everforth Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Everforth Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law.

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