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Industrial Control Panel Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Providence, RI ยท On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

... industrial automation projects, from initial concept and design through PLC programming ... Create detailed electrical schematics, P&IDs, and control panel layouts using CAD software like ...

Controls Technician

Cranston, RI ยท On-site

$40 - $55/hr

Install, repair and service industrial equipment including Pump Control Panels, VFD, PLC and ATS. Must be familiar with Industrial electric motors and electric motor control systems, variable speed ...

Electrician - 1st Shift

Lincoln, RI ยท On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Experience with programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and industrial automation systems ... Diagnose and repair electrical malfunctions in machinery, control panels, and other equipment to ...

Electrician - 1st Shift

Lincoln, RI ยท On-site

$40 - $48/hr

Experience with programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and industrial automation systems ... Diagnose and repair electrical malfunctions in machinery, control panels, and other equipment to ...

Senior, Automation Engineer

East Providence, RI ยท On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

Design, specify, and troubleshoot electrical control systems including control panels, wiring ... Program, integrate, and troubleshoot industrial robots (e.g., ABB, Fanuc), including motion ...

Industrial Control Panel information

What is an industrial control panel?

Industrial control panels are assemblies of electrical components, such as circuit breakers, relays, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs), used to control machinery and equipment in industrial settings. These panels manage and monitor the operation of production lines, manufacturing equipment, and other automated systems. They play a crucial role in ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability in industrial processes. Proper design, installation, and maintenance of industrial control panels are essential to meet safety standards and optimize performance.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working with industrial control panels, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working with industrial control panels often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex wiring issues, ensuring compliance with safety and industry standards, and adapting to new technologies. Staying current with updates to regulations like UL 508A and NFPA 70 is essential. Collaborating closely with electricians, engineers, and safety managers can help resolve issues quickly and foster a safer, more efficient work environment. Regular training and hands-on experience are crucial for overcoming technical challenges and advancing in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an industrial control panel technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Industrial Control Panel Technician, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, schematic reading, wiring, and troubleshooting, typically supported by a technical diploma or associate degree in electrical engineering or industrial maintenance. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and relevant safety codes such as NEC and UL 508A is crucial. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and compliant installation and maintenance of control panels in industrial environments.

What is the difference between Industrial Control Panel vs Electrical Technician?

AspectIndustrial Control PanelElectrical Technician
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certification in control systems or electrical workRequires electrical certifications or licenses, such as a journeyman or master electrician
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, industrial facilities, or automation environmentsConstruction sites, maintenance facilities, industrial settings
Job FocusDesign, assembly, and troubleshooting of control panels and automation systemsInstallation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems and equipment

Both roles involve electrical work in industrial settings, but Industrial Control Panel specialists focus on designing and troubleshooting control systems, while Electrical Technicians handle broader electrical maintenance and repairs. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Industrial Control Panel jobs in Rhode Island?

For Industrial Control Panel jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Industrial Control Panel jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Industrial Control Panel jobs in Rhode Island are:

Infographic showing various Industrial Control Panel job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Controls Engineer

Providence, RI โ€ข On-site

LT Staffing Inc
11 - 50 employees

$84K - $109K/yr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย Local candidates only, no relocation offered

A Controls Engineer in this role serves as the technical lead for the entire lifecycle of industrial automation projects, from initial concept and design through PLC programming, installation, and final site commissioning.
Job Overview
We are seeking a highly skilledย Controls Engineerย to take full ownership of production equipment projects. You will be responsible for designing electrical control systems, developing sophisticated PLC and HMI software, and managing the physical installation and startup of automated machinery. This is a "cradle-to-grave" project role requiring both high-level engineering design and hands-on field expertise.
Key Responsibilities
  • Project Design & Documentation: Create detailed electrical schematics, P&IDs, and control panel layouts using CAD software likeย AutoCAD. Specify all control hardware including PLCs, sensors, and safety components.
  • PLC/HMI Development: Design and program complex logic for platforms such asย Allen-Bradley/Rockwellย orย Siemens. Develop intuitiveย HMI/SCADAย interfaces for equipment operation and monitoring.
  • End-to-End Project Management: Manage timelines, budgets, and vendors from the initial proposal phase through installation.
  • Installation & Commissioning: Lead on-site installation efforts, overseeing electrical contractors to ensure systems are wired correctly. Conduct Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
  • Troubleshooting & Support: Debug software and hardware issues during the startup phase. Provide technical training to maintenance and operations teams once equipment is live.
Required Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Technical Proficiency:
    • 3-5+ years of experience in industrial automation and project management.
    • Expert-level knowledge of PLC programming languages likeย Ladder Logic,ย Structured Text, orย Function Block.
    • Deep understanding of industrial networking protocols such asย EtherNet/IP,ย Profinet, andย Modbus.
  • Physical & Travel: Ability to travel to production sites for installation and commissioning (up to 30-50% depending on project phase).
Preferred Skills
  • Experience withย motion controlย (servos/VFDs) andย robotic integrationย (e.g.,ย FANUCย orย ABB).
  • Knowledge of industry safety standards such asย OSHAย andย NFPA 70E.