Entry Level Control Engineer Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Controls Project Engineer II

About Vanderlande

Vanderlande is a global leader in logistics process automation, specializing in automated material handling systems for airports, warehouses, and parcel operations. Our innovative solutions help move millions of products and pieces of luggage around the world every day. With a strong focus on technology, collaboration, and continuous improvement, we are committed to delivering reliable solutions for our customers while providing meaningful career opportunities for our employees.

Position Summary

The Controls Project Engineer II is an entry-level engineering position within Vanderlande's Controls Engineering Department, supporting the design, programming, commissioning, and testing of automated material handling systems that integrate hardware and software components.

Working under the guidance of senior and lead engineers, this role provides hands-on experience with PLC systems, SCADA/HMI platforms, and system-level commissioning activities. The Controls Project Engineer II contributes to both small- and large-scale automation projects while supporting field-based project execution, system testing, and documentation.

Overview

• Support the commissioning, testing, and design of automated material handling systems integrating PLC, SCADA, and hardware components.
• Work under the guidance of senior and lead engineers while gaining practical experience in controls engineering and system integration.
• Contribute to field-based project execution activities including testing, documentation, and system verification.
• Participate in both small- and large-scale automation projects within airport, warehouse, and parcel logistics environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform device-, zone-, and area-level commissioning and testing in support of PLC and SCADA systems, including configuration of field hardware and documentation using commissioning checklists and test plans.
• Support PLC and SCADA development activities, including writing, debugging, and testing PLC code and assisting with SCADA/HMI program development and system commissioning under the direction of lead engineers.
• Maintain project documentation and reporting, including daily progress updates, commissioning checklists, test plans, quality checks, and support for Controls Functional Specifications and Descriptions of Operation.
• Support site execution activities, including managing punch lists, monitoring subcontractor progress, coordinating with project teams, and following jobsite safety requirements.

Qualifications / Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Technology (or equivalent technical experience).
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 80% to support commissioning and project execution activities.
• Strong communication, time management, and organizational skills with the ability to work both independently and in team environments.
• Ability to understand PLC programs, SCADA systems, and electrical schematics, along with familiarity with Windows-based computer systems.

Preferred

• Exposure to PLC-based control systems, particularly Siemens (TIA Portal) or Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000), and familiarity with ladder logic programming.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus, or other field network technologies.
• Basic understanding of networking principles, computer hardware configuration, and programming languages such as SQL, Visual Basic, C, C++, or C#.
• Experience or coursework related to automation systems, project scheduling concepts, or troubleshooting conveyor systems, motors, drives, and related equipment.

What We Offer

• Opportunities for hands-on technical development and career growth within a global leader in logistics automation.
• Exposure to large-scale automated material handling systems across airports, warehouses, and parcel operations.
• A collaborative engineering environment working alongside experienced controls engineers and project teams.
• Competitive compensation and benefits, with opportunities for travel and field-based engineering experience.

EEOC Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.