Associate Controls Engineer

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering has an Associate Controls Engineer opportunity available in Pleasanton, CA. This person would deliver process control systems including DCS/PLC/SCADA/HMI programming, hardware designs, network architecture design, instrumentation/electrical designs, check-out/start-up support, etc.

Please Note: This position is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization, including H-1B sponsorship. The Company does not participate in the STEM OPT training program for this position.

The following responsibilities are essential to the satisfactory performance of this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made as needed. Non-essential functions are assumed to be included under "other related duties as assigned."

• Assist in the design, development, configuration, and implementation of Rockwell, Emerson DeltaV, or similar control systems, ensuring alignment with client requirements, Wunderlich-Malec standards, and industry best practices

• Support programming, configuration, and testing of control systems (PLC, DCS, SCADA, HMI)

• Update and redline control system schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts

• Conduct research and analysis to support engineering design decisions

• Verify proper configuration and communication of field devices, including network-integrated systems

• Participate in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) to validate system performance against design requirements

• Validate execution of control sequences, alert activation, trend displays, trend configurations, control system failures, and overall verification of the system graphics

• Collaborate with internal teams and external multidisciplinary teams to support project objectives

• Work under the guidance of senior engineers and project managers

• Participate in project meetings and contribute to project planning and execution

• Support project documentation, reporting, and administrative tasks

• Identify and pursue opportunities for technical and professional growth

• Participate in design reviews and incorporate feedback into project deliverables

• Independently execute small-to-medium tasks from technical design through completion

• Demonstrate adherence to quality standards, project procedures, and engineering best practices

• Willingness to travel up to 25% for on-site support and commissioning, including participation in multi-month rotational assignments at client sites

• Comply with safety protocols and client-specific requirements

• Valid driver's license and international passport (or ability to obtain quickly)

• Assist with on-site installation, testing, and startup of engineering systems
• Ensure devices and/or equipment, associated with the control system, have been installed and wired per the manufacturer's requirements as well as the submitted and approved package shop drawings and documentation

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Computer, Chemical, or related field) preferred

• Associate degree in Engineering Technology with relevant experience may be considered

• 0 to 4 years of experience in automation and control system engineering

• Entry-level internship or co-op experience in engineering is a plus

• Additional targeted experience

• Demonstrates perseverance in overcoming challenges and achieving goals

• Passion for quality, craftsmanship, innovation, and problem-solving

• Communicates ideas and perspectives clearly while promoting alignment through active listening, collaboration, and constructive feedback

• Actively seeks, accepts, and integrates feedback for continuous improvement

• Applies analytical thinking and problem-solving skills to engineering challenges

• Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and environments

• Ability to identify problems or gaps and proactively develop solutions

• Maintains a dependable and results-oriented approach to work

• Working knowledge of control systems and instrumentation concepts

• Collaborates effectively across multidisciplinary teams through open communication, constructive problem solving, and active participation in team objectives

• This role involves both office and on-site work. In the office, employees should be able to sit or stand for extended periods, use computers and standard office tools, and read technical documents. On-site work may include standing and moving for long shifts, climbing ladders, lifting up to 40 pounds, and working around machinery. Tasks may require color recognition, clear communication in noisy environments, and safe operation of vehicles or equipment. Employees must wear required PPE (e.g., safety glasses, steel-toed boots, hard hats) and comply with client-specific safety protocols. Work environments may include construction sites, industrial facilities, and chemical processing areas with exposure to noise, temperature changes, and industrial materials.

• Empowered Employee-Owners - As owners of Wunderlich-Malec, we are invested in its success. We hire top talent and empower them to take initiative, drive innovation, and deliver impactful solutions

• Motivated & Rewarded - We invest in continuing education and offer world-class benefits, ensuring our employee-owners stay motivated, fulfilled, and future-ready

• Positive & Committed - Our experts bring long-term dedication and a positive, can-do attitude to every project

• Industry-Smart - Recognized as leaders in their fields, our employee-owners stay sharp through ongoing training and deep knowledge of evolving industry trends

*Job Descriptions are not exhaustive lists of all skills, responsibilities, or efforts associated with a job. They reflect principal job elements essential for performing the job and evaluating performance.

The expected salary range is $85,000 to $115,000 base per year depending on qualifications plus a discretionary bonus and employee stock program.

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