Lead Controls Electrician
Collaborate, Innovate, Automate
At Top Hat Engineering we develop software, robotic, and automated technologies for fulfillment and distribution centers. We fuel the backbone of ecommerce and distribution channels by building state-of-the art technologies tailored for the best overall customer experience on the market. We separate ourselves by working collaboratively with our customers to identify, and implement innovative solutions to help them drive efficient operations.
If you are interested in leveraging your talents to drive innovation, customer satisfaction, and work on a dynamic team where every opinion matters, please explore the opportunities within our exciting team!
Position Summary
The Controls Electrician / Controls Installation Lead is responsible for supporting the installation, commissioning, and startup of industrial automation systems across customer facilities throughout North America. This role combines hands-on electrical installation work with field leadership responsibilities, ensuring projects are executed safely, efficiently, and according to engineering standards.
The ideal candidate will possess strong industrial electrical troubleshooting skills, experience with controls and automation systems, and the ability to coordinate field electricians and subcontractors while maintaining a high level of quality and professionalism.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Install, terminate, and troubleshoot low-voltage control wiring including PLC I/O, sensors, safety devices, HMIs, and industrial networking equipment.
- Install and troubleshoot motor controls, VFDs, MCC equipment, and associated power distribution systems.
- Review electrical drawings, schematics, and installation packages to ensure accurate field execution.
- Coordinate and oversee electrical subcontractors and installation crews during project execution.
- Perform field device checkout, I/O verification, and commissioning activities.
- Support controls engineers during system startup, troubleshooting, and customer acceptance testing.
- Verify installations meet project specifications, applicable electrical codes, and safety requirements.
- Create redline markups and provide field feedback to engineering teams.
- Assist with FAT, SAT, and customer startup activities.
- Maintain a safe work environment and ensure compliance with lockout/tagout and site safety procedures.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Technical degree, trade school certification, or apprenticeship training in electrical systems preferred.
- 5+ years of industrial electrical experience.
- Experience leading electricians, subcontractors, or installation crews preferred.
- Ability to travel up to 50% as required.
- Valid driver's license and ability to travel throughout the United States.
Essential Skills Required
- Proficiency in reading electrical schematics, panel drawings, and wiring diagrams.
- Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems and 24VDC control circuits.
- Experience installing and troubleshooting motors, motor starters, and VFDs.
- Experience troubleshooting industrial automation equipment using electrical drawings and test equipment.
- Ability to identify and resolve electrical, controls, and installation issues in the field.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to coordinate activities between customers, contractors, and engineering teams.
- Ability to work independently while maintaining project schedules and quality standards.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Familiarity with industrial safety practices including lockout/tagout procedures.
Preferred Qualifications
- Journeyman Electrician license.
- Schematic design experience using AutoCAD and/or AutoCAD Electrical.
- Experience with conveyor systems, warehouse automation, or material handling equipment.
- Experience with Allen-Bradley PLC platforms and industrial control systems.
- OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
- NFPA 70E training.
- Experience commissioning automated equipment.
- Familiarity with Ethernet/IP and industrial networking.
- Experience supporting customer startup and commissioning activities.
